The 39th ICC World Cup 2023 event in Mumbai saw Glenn Maxwell produce a remarkable double-century against Afghanistan, which is regarded as the greatest ODI innings. Even though he was experiencing severe lower-body cramps and back spasms, he was incredibly resilient and hit 21 boundaries and 10 sixes with incredible upper-body power. His innings became an iconic piece of cricket history, as this incredible feat of strength helped Australia win.
Glenn Maxwell attributed his skill to a pre-game batting exercise he completed in the BBL eight or nine years ago, which helped him hone his ability to hit significant boundaries. He talked about his BBL days and how he used to only use his upper-body strength for sixes. In his innings that won the game against Afghanistan, he emphasized the value of quickly adapting and demonstrated the use of talents that he had developed over the years.
“Approximately eight or nine years ago, one of the things I used to focus on before every BBL game was foot drills. I would stay still for the first 12 balls I faced while trying to hit them as far as I could. In order to feel like I hit a six, I had to hold my upper body for as long as possible, regardless of the length, he said on the Club Prairie Podcast.
“Practicing that upper-body movement without using your legs is actually a good way to figure out where your ideal heave point is,” the speaker continued. Regarding those [innings against Afghanistan], it’s evident that I had to make a few adjustments to the way that bowlers actually delivered the ball—not just half-volleies outside off stump, but also in different spots. merely depending on the material I had previously worked on and making every effort to adjust as soon as possible.”
I think I can get out of trouble with my hands. Glenn Maxwell
The right-handed batter spoke up on the podcast about his struggles with excruciating cramping, especially in his calf muscle. He also talked about how his middle toe bent back during the Afghanistan game and his historic 40-ball century against the Netherlands. Glenn Maxwell signature ability in white-ball cricket is his ability to find gaps all around the ground with ease, regardless of the length, line, or tactics of the bowler.
“Once I’m in, I think I can mentally prepare myself ahead of time and know exactly where I want to hit it.If the ball is not quite in that location, I think my hands can bail me out, and I give myself a couple options for different lengths,” Glenn Maxwell said.