Glenn Maxwell, Australia’s dynamic middle-order all-rounder, returned triumphantly to form in a record-breaking fashion during a recent World Cup match.

Maxwell’s breathtaking century in a match against the Netherlands silenced his critics and dispelled any self-doubts he may have had. 

The veteran cricketer overcame multiple setbacks to deliver a stunning performance.

A Challenging Road to Redemption:

Maxwell faced adversity when he broke his leg in November and missed Australia’s tour of South Africa due to an ankle issue, impacting his preparation for the World Cup. 

While he initially played the second spinner in the early matches, his signature swashbuckling batting was notably absent.

Maxwell’s Record-Breaking Century:

Against the Netherlands, Maxwell showcased his prowess by scoring the fastest World Cup century in just 40 balls. 

He made 106 off 44 balls, including eight sixes and nine fours, earning the man of the match award. This remarkable century also ranks as the fourth fastest in all One Day Internationals (ODIs).

Maxwell joins a select group of cricketers with lightning-fast ODI centuries. South Africa’s AB de Villiers holds the record with a 31-ball century in 2015, followed by New Zealand’s Corey Anderson (36 balls in 2014) and Pakistan’s Shahid Afridi (37 balls in 1996).

A Confidence Boost:

Maxwell delighted with the performance, noting, “It’s a huge confidence boost; a few doubts creep in when you haven’t got runs.”

Maxwell and David Warner’s explosive centuries propelled Australia to 399-8. 

The Netherlands’ opponents were bundled out for just 90 runs in 21 overs, marking the largest defeat in World Cup history.

Consolidating Australia’s Position:

Australia, a five-time World Cup champion, strengthened their fourth position in the points table and significantly improved their net run rate, which could be advantageous in the race for a spot in the semifinals.

Australia’s captain Pat Cummins, who witnessed Maxwell’s remarkable performance from the crease, described him as “a freak” and commended Maxwell’s clean and powerful hitting.

Historic Bowling Figures:

Dutch bowler Bas de Leede had a challenging day, recording figures of 2-115, making it the worst-ever ODI performance.

Cummins marveled at Maxwell’s performance, describing it as a “freak show” and acknowledging the limited options bowlers have when a batsman is in such exceptional form.