In a nail-biting encounter at Wankhede Stadium, Glenn Maxwell’s indomitable spirit propelled Australia to an astonishing three-wicket win against Afghanistan in the Cricket World Cup 2023. Despite battling severe cramps and hobbling on one leg, Maxwell’s unbeaten double-century turned the tide for the Aussies, chasing a daunting 292-run target.
Australia’s miraculous comeback was fueled by Maxwell’s lion-hearted performance. With the team reeling at 7-91, he joined forces with captain Pat Cummins, forging a remarkable 202-run partnership for the eighth wicket. Their resilience shattered records, securing Australia’s highest successful run chase in World Cup history and the highest successful ODI run chase at Wankhede Stadium.
Maxwell’s 128-ball innings was a testament to courage. Despite spasms and exhaustion, he smashed 21 boundaries and ten sixes, finishing unbeaten on 201. His teammates struggled to contribute, with nobody else managing more than 24 runs. Cummins, his partner in the historic stand, added just 12 runs.
Afghanistan’s Missed Opportunities
Afghanistan’s fielders and the Hawkeye technology played a role in Maxwell’s survival. He was dropped twice early in his innings and survived a couple of marginal DRS calls. The 35-year-old’s entire body spasmed at one point, yet he continued dealing in boundaries because he couldn’t run between the wickets. Maxwell’s charmed life and unwavering determination left everyone in awe.
A Heroic Victory
As the dust settled, Australia celebrated an improbable win. Maxwell etched his name in history as the first Australian men’s player to score an ODI double-century. His feat, achieved while batting at No. 3 or lower, will forever be etched in cricketing lore.
