Australia’s dynamic all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has been dealt a setback after sustaining a freak wrist injury while bowling in the nets to Mitchell Owen ahead of the T20I series against India in Mount Maunganui. The incident occurred when Owen struck a delivery back at Maxwell at pace, fracturing his wrist on impact.

Following the injury, Maxwell immediately consulted a specialist and opted for surgery to potentially reduce his recovery period to four weeks, keeping a slim chance alive for participation in the T20Is against India. Maxwell was not included in Australia’s squad for the first two T20Is on October 29 and 31, but he hopes to be fit for the final three matches scheduled for November 2, 6, and 8.

“The surgery gives me hope to play some part in that India series. The options were to miss it completely or have surgery and get a slim chance,” Glenn Maxwell told ESPNcricinfo.

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The Kew-born cricketer had his cast removed and is now wearing a moulded plastic splint. He has been cleared to begin basic wrist movements under the guidance of a hand therapist. Maxwell reassured that there’s no risk of aggravating the injury, but acknowledged that he will need to gauge his comfort while batting.

Glenn Maxwell, after injury, is ready to return for the upcoming T20 series against India later this month, boosting Australia’s chances.#Indvsaus pic.twitter.com/SQAnnnDMZk

— Manish_Anyways (@ManishKuma97130) October 9, 2025

Reflecting on the bizarre nature of his injury, Maxwell joked about his history of freak incidents, including a broken leg at a birthday party and a concussion from a golf cart fall. “Probably just unlucky with the position it hit my arm,” he said.

Maxwell also discussed strategising while bowling in the Big Bash League, noting the challenge of facing power hitters like Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, Mitchell Owen, and Cam Green. He promised to adjust his plans for safer lines during the upcoming BBL season.

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Adding to the excitement, Maxwell expressed enthusiasm over India’s Ravichandran Ashwin making his BBL debut for Sydney Thunder. “Having a world-class superstar like Ashwin is a massive bonus. He’ll share wisdom with players and attract more fans to the tournament,” Maxwell said, highlighting the boost Ashwin brings to the 15th edition of the BBL.

Maxwell’s focus now remains on recovery, regaining form, and making a strong return in both the T20I series and the BBL.