Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell returned to form for Punjab Kings (PBKS) during an intra-squad practice match at the New PCA Stadium in Mullanpur.
The versatile player, who had returned to PBKS after being released by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), was in complete control with both bat and ball, reminding spectators why he’s considered one of the most coveted players.
Maxwell had represented PBKS for seven years earlier, scoring 1,294 runs and claiming 13 wickets in his previous outing.
In a practice match on Friday, Maxwell made 40 runs in 20 balls with 4 fours and 2 sixes and took 2 wickets.
His performance was a highlight of the match, proving he’s still in great form despite a quiet final season with RCB.
𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐢 𝐩𝐚𝐚𝐣𝐢, 𝐚𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐡𝐢 𝐬𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐮 𝐤𝐚𝐫 𝐝𝐢𝐲𝐞! 🔥#GlennMaxwell #PunjabKings #IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/hVqEgrJ8yU
— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) March 21, 2025
The practice match saw PBKS A post a strong total of 202 runs in 20 overs.
Alongside Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis contributed 47 runs, while young opener Priyansh Arya gave a quick start with 28 runs off 12 balls. Pyla Avinash also impressed, scoring an unbeaten 38 off 16 balls.
On the bowling side, Xavier Bartlett took 2 wickets for PBKS B, while Yuzvendra Chahal, Marco Jansen, and Lockie Ferguson claimed one wicket each.
In response, PBKS B fell short by 20 runs, finishing at 182. Aaron Hardie was the standout performer for PBKS B, scoring 53 runs off 28 balls, but his efforts were overshadowed by Maxwell’s all-round show.
Maxwell, along with Vyshak Vijay Kumar and Kuldeep Sen, took 2 wickets each, while Arshdeep Singh and Harpreet Brar chipped in with one wicket apiece.
This practice match was a crucial part of PBKS’ preparations under new coach Ricky Ponting.
With the IPL 2025 season set to begin on March 25, the team is looking to build momentum.
Youngsters like Priyansh Arya have also shown promise, making a strong case for the opener’s slot.
PBKS will kick off their IPL 2025 campaign against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, and if Maxwell’s performance is anything to go by, fans can expect some fireworks this season.
Stay tuned for more updates as the action unfolds!
