Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell recently opened up about the franchise’s decision not to retain him ahead of the 2025 IPL mega auction. RCB retained three core players—Virat Kohli (INR 21 crore), Rajat Patidar (INR 11 crore), and Yash Dayal (INR 5 crore)—locking in INR 37 crore for these players, leaving INR 83 crore in their auction purse along with three Right to Match (RTM) cards.
While Glenn Maxwell had been a mainstay for RCB since joining the team in 2021, the franchise opted not to retain him, prompting speculation about his future with the team. Maxwell shared his thoughts on the release and praised RCB’s handling of the conversation.
In a candid discussion on ESPNcricinfo’s Around the Wicket, he revealed, “I got a phone call from Mo Bobat and Andy Flower. We had a Zoom meeting where they explained the decision. Surprisingly, it was a really positive exit meeting, if that can be possible. We talked about their strategy and the team’s direction for over half an hour. I was happy with the transparency and clarity they provided.”
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Reflecting on RCB’s strategy, Glenn Maxwell expressed understanding of the franchise’s long-term vision, noting changes not only in the player roster but in team staff as well.
“I got a phone call… it was a really beautiful exit meeting… I’d love to get back there!”@Gmaxi_32 on not being retained by @RCBTweets in IPL
“That sounds like somebody who’s expecting Bangalore to stick the paddle up!” @AaronFinch5#AroundTheWicket Wednesdays on @ESPNAusNZ pic.twitter.com/t31br1hH14
— Neroli Meadows (@Neroli_Meadows) November 6, 2024
“They were changing some of their staff, so they needed time to finalize everything before reaching out to players. Naturally, you get a bit anxious as the deadline approaches, wondering if you’ll be retained or not, but I completely understand the direction they’re heading. They’re focusing on building a strong local core, and hopefully, they’ll add overseas players who can complement them,” he said.
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Glenn Maxwell added that he doesn’t see this as the end of his RCB journey, stating, “I’d certainly love to return. It was a great franchise to play for, and I really enjoyed my time there.” Despite Maxwell’s enthusiasm for RCB, his recent season’s stats may have factored into the decision. He managed only 52 runs across nine innings at an average of 5.77, with a highest score of 28.
However, he showed some impact with the ball, taking six wickets at an average of 21.50 and an economy rate of 8.06. With his all-rounder reputation, Maxwell is expected to be a hot commodity at the upcoming mega auction, where teams will be eager to bid for his experience and skillset. Given RCB’s substantial purse, they could make a play to bring Maxwell back into their fold, potentially even breaking the bank to secure his services for the upcoming season.
