Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell unleashed a rare off-the-field outburst after smashing a record-breaking century against the Netherlands, criticizing the mid-match light show organized by the World Cup authorities during Australia’s massive 309-run victory. The two-minute spectacle transformed New Delhi’s Arun Jaitley stadium into a virtual nightclub with flashing lights and pulsating beats while the Netherlands was chasing a daunting 400-run target. But Maxwell, known as ‘The Big Show’ for his aggressive batting, wasn’t a fan.
“I had something like that light show happen at Perth Stadium during a Big Bash game,” Glenn Maxwell said after recording the fastest century in 50-over World Cup history. “I just felt like it gave me shocking headaches and it takes me a while for my eyes to re-adjust. I just think it’s the dumbest idea for cricketers. So I just try and cover up as much as I possibly can and ignore it, but it’s a horrible, horrible idea. Great for the fans, horrible for the players.”
Maxwell’s teammate David Warner, who also notched a century in the match against the Netherlands, had a contrasting opinion. “I absolutely loved the light show, what an atmosphere,” David Warner tweeted. “It’s all about the fans. Without you all we won’t be able to do what we love.”
I absolutely loved the light show, what an atmosphere. It’s all about the fans. Without you all we won’t be able to do what we love. 🙏🙏🙏 https://t.co/ywKVn5d5gc
— David Warner (@davidwarner31) October 25, 2023
Maxwell’s criticism of the light show comes at a time when cricket administrators are increasingly looking to attract new fans to the sport by incorporating elements of entertainment and spectacle. However, Maxwell’s comments suggest that some players may be concerned about the impact of such distractions on their performance.
Glenn Maxwell also mentioned feeling “cooked” due to a sleepless night on the eve of the match after being joined by his family in the Indian capital.
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“Yeah, not great,” Glenn Maxwell said. “I was sitting in the changing room and I didn’t really want to bat, which is a bit different than the last game where I was way too eager to get out there. I was a little bit more chilled when I got out there. Didn’t have many high hopes, I think.”
Despite his lack of sleep, Maxwell went on to produce one of the most destructive innings in World Cup history, reaching his century in 40 balls and finishing with 106 runs. His knock helped Australia post a mammoth total of 399-8, which proved to be too much for the Netherlands.
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With the win over the Netherlands, Australia remains fourth in the World Cup table but now have a two-point lead over Pakistan in five matches. South Africa and New Zealand, second and third respectively, are tied at 8 points, while India remains the only unbeaten team in the tournament so far, winning all of their five matches to stay top. Australia will be looking to continue their winning momentum when they take on Bangladesh in their next match on October 28.
