Australia is gearing up for the upcoming Ashes with some match practice in the Sheffield Shield matches. There is only one vacant space left in their starting XI, which is number XI. Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis and Hilton Cartwright are the contenders for this position.

Meanwhile, Maxwell is the top candidate for this place as he proved his worth in the Shield match against South Australia, where he notched up twin fifties, which will volume his position. Also, he scored his maiden Test ton during India tour in Ranchi at this very same batting position.

“I think (selectors) made it pretty clear that they wanted the top six batters in the country and I want to put my hand up and be one of them,” Maxwell told reporters in Melbourne. I feel like I’m starting ahead of the pack because I played the last test and I think I was undefeated,” said Maxwell.

“Even if it was in a different country, I feel like I batted quite well and I showed some really good signs.”

Also, his off-spin bowling ability is worth to this position and can create a web of spin along with Nathan Lyon. Earlier, Shane Warne said that he would definitely pick him in the starting XI and he can prove as an ‘X-factor’.

However, the Big Show rejects this tag and backs his big hitting ability.  “I’m not talking about the word ‘X-factor’ again,” he added.

“I have ability to score quickly at stages but I think the way I’ve been playing recently, I’ve been more concentrating on just playing good cricket shots and making sure that I’m there for a longer period of time. Hopefully, that holds me in good stead,” the 29-year-old concluded.

The battle for Urn will begin from November 23 in Brisbane’s Gabba.