Glenn Maxwell is set to make his return to red-ball cricket as he has been selected in Victoria's 12-man squad for the Second XI four-day competition against Queensland. This match will take place at the Junction Oval starting on Monday. Maxwell has not participated in a four-day game for over twelve months, marking a significant step as he looks to re-establish himself in the longer format, particularly with an eye on representing Australia in the upcoming Test series in Sri Lanka scheduled for early next year.
In terms of immediate prospects, it seems unlikely that Maxwell will feature in Victoria’s subsequent Sheffield Shield match that is scheduled to commence on Sunday, October 20. This match will be played just three days after the completion of the Second XI game. Notably, several prominent Test players, including Steven Smith, Nathan Lyon, and Mitchell Starc, are anticipated to participate in this Shield match, along with the expected return of Scott Boland to the competing lineup.
The rules governing Cricket Australia's Second XI competition allow for a 12-player squad to participate in matches, creating flexibility for player management throughout the four-day fixture. Each team can utilize 11 players for batting and bowling, which facilitates rest and rotation. Given Maxwell's significant history with injuries, particularly a severe leg injury sustained two years ago, his workload will be closely monitored. On the day of the match, Maxwell will celebrate his 36th birthday, a noteworthy milestone considering he has only played two first-class matches in the last five years.
Looking ahead, Maxwell is poised to compete in a one-day domestic match against New South Wales on October 25. This game may feature prominent players such as Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. However, Maxwell is unlikely to participate in the third or fourth rounds of the Sheffield Shield, as these matches coincide with Australia’s One Day International and T20 International series against Pakistan. After these series, Maxwell would be available for Victoria’s fifth and sixth Shield fixtures prior to the commencement of the Big Bash League, indicating that he is likely to participate in at least one of those upcoming games.
The fixtures lined up for Victoria include a pink-ball match against Queensland at the Gabba on November 24, as well as a subsequent match at the MCG on December 6. Furthermore, there is a potential opportunity for Maxwell to feature in a two-day pink-ball Prime Minister’s XI game against India in Canberra, scheduled for November 30.
From a strategic perspective, Maxwell is viewed as a strong candidate for Australia’s Test tour to Sri Lanka. His experience in subcontinental conditions makes him an attractive selection, especially as he is perceived to be a valuable asset due to his prowess as a spin-bowling all-rounder. Maxwell was previously part of the Australia squad that toured Sri Lanka in 2022, where he was a close contender to play in the first Test at Galle. His firsthand experience in such environments is critical given that conditions can lead to low-scoring, swift-moving matches.
All seven of Maxwell's Test appearances have occurred in the subcontinent, with his most recent test match dating back to 2017 against Bangladesh. It is noteworthy that selectors have previously suggested that performances in Sheffield Shield cricket may not be directly indicative of success in Sri Lanka, attributing this to the significant differences in conditions and playing style. Nevertheless, there is a mutual understanding between Maxwell and the selectors regarding the importance of playing red-ball cricket, particularly for physical conditioning reasons.
Additionally, Victoria's Second XI squad includes Will Sutherland, the state captain, who is also participating in the upcoming match after being rested for the initial round of the Sheffield Shield. Sutherland is in the process of rehabilitating from a serious back injury, which necessitates a managed bowling load during this competition.
The Victorian Second XI squad comprises players such as Will Sutherland (captain), Austin Anlezark, Liam Blackford, Dylan Brasher, Xavier Crone, Harry Dixon, Jai Lemire, Reilley Mark, Glenn Maxwell, Jon Merlo, David Moody, and Doug Warren, setting the stage for an important next step in their cricketing journeys.
Overall, Maxwell's return to red-ball cricket within the Second XI format demonstrates his determination to regain his position in the national team and the importance of preparation ahead of international commitments. His participation in these matches will provide critical insights into his readiness for the rigors of Test cricket, particularly in conditions that demand both skill and endurance. As the cricketing calendar progresses, fans will be keenly observing Maxwell's performance, hopeful that he can contribute to Australia's future success in the Test arena.