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Glenn Maxwell’s stint as captain of the Melbourne Stars has been marked by highs and lows, culminating in his decision to step down after the Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24 season. Maxwell, who took on the captaincy in BBL|08, led the team to back-to-back finals appearances in his first two seasons, but the Stars fell short both times – first to the Melbourne Renegades and then to the Sydney Sixers in BBL|09.
Glenn Maxwell’s leadership journey with Melbourne Stars
While his tenure included some impressive individual performances, the team struggled to make it back to the finals, missing the playoffs for four consecutive years. Despite the lack of silverware, Maxwell’s leadership record was still commendable, with the Stars posting a 35-31 win-loss record under his guidance.
Maxwell’s contributions to the Stars cannot be overlooked. He became the club’s all-time leader in games played, both as a captain (65 matches) and as a player (103 matches). Even though his final season was marred by injury, which kept him out of most games, Maxwell’s impact on the franchise remains significant. His decision to step down as captain to focus on his playing career allowed the team to look towards a new chapter, with a fresh leadership structure that would bring renewed hope for success.
Replacement of Maxwell for the BBL 14
Following Maxwell’s decision to step aside, Marcus Stoinis has been named the Stars’ seventh full-time captain. Stoinis, a long-standing member of the team for over a decade, has already shown leadership potential during Maxwell’s absence in the previous season. His appointment was widely seen as a natural choice, given his experience and commitment to the Stars. Stoinis, who recently signed a three-year extension with the club, expressed his excitement about the new role.
“I am honoured to take over from Maxwell having deputised for him last season when he missed their match against Perth Scorchers through injury. I had a little bit of a taste of captaining the side in ‘Maxi’s’ absence last year and loved the opportunity, so to be given the role full time is a great honour. The Stars have been such a constant in my life every summer for the last 10 years and I truly believe with the group we have assembled this season both on and off the field we can bring some long overdue success to the club,” Stoinis was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.
Introducing your BBL|14 Captain, @MStoinis pic.twitter.com/Q7tYMRVFCh
— Melbourne Stars (@StarsBBL) December 10, 2024
Also READ: “It was when…,”: Glenn Maxwell reveals the story behind Virat Kohli blocking him on Instagram
Performance in the Big Bash League and challenges ahead
Stoinis has been a key player for the Stars, amassing 2,656 career runs – making him the second-highest run-scorer in the club’s history – and taking 39 wickets. His leadership will be crucial in turning around the fortunes of the franchise, which has yet to win a Big Bash League title despite several close calls. As the Stars prepare for their BBL|14 campaign, Stoinis will be determined to guide them back to the finals and break the club’s title drought. His recent form, which included a strong showing in the T20 World Cup, gives him the momentum to lead with confidence.
Stoinis’ leadership, combined with his consistent on-field performances, makes him a promising figure to build on Maxwell’s legacy. With a balanced squad and the right leadership in place, the Stars are now poised to challenge for their first BBL title under Stoinis’ captaincy. The road ahead will not be easy, as the Stars open their season against the defending champions, the Perth Scorchers, but with Stoinis at the helm, they are ready for a fresh start and renewed optimism.
