An extraordinary double century from Glenn Maxwell helped Australia pull off what seemed like an improbable victory against Afghanistan in Mumbai. It was entirely a one man show at the Wankhede Stadium as the Aussies outclassed Afghanistan by three wickets to cruise into the semifinals. Feeling completely debilitated by back spasm and cramps, Maxwell wreaked havoc on the Afghanistan bowlers with his unbeaten knock of 201 runs off just 128 balls.
After single-handedly taking his team to the semi-final of the 2023 World Cup, Maxwell acknowledged his good fortune in surviving the early stages when Afghanistan dropped him twice. The missed opportunities included a chance provided by Afghan skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi and a simple catch dropped by spinner Mujeeb-ur-Rahman. Additionally, Maxwell had a close call when the on-field umpire initially gave him out leg before when he was in his mid-30s. However, a successful DRS review not only saved his wicket but also played a pivotal role in securing the match for Australia.
“I was very lucky. I wish this inning could have been chanceless. I was given a couple of chances, and I had to make the most out of them,” Maxwell said after winning the Player of the Match award. “I was trying to remain positive and attack the bad balls. I had to capitalize on the chances that I got. Making the most of it tonight is something I can be proud of.”