Aussie coach Darren Lehmann issues Glenn Maxwell a challenge

Darren Lehmann, the coach of the Australian cricket team since the past 4 years, has issued a challenge to all-rounder Glenn Maxwell to cement himself in the Australia Test side after the latter made a promising comeback in India. Since 2014, the Ranchi Test was Maxwell’s first Test appearance and he made it special by scoring a maiden century earlier this month. The 28-year-old also topped the scorecard with 45 in the second innings of the Dharamsala Test as the tourists were dismissed for only 137 before being handed over to a 2-1 series defeat.

Australia head coach Lehmann said it now depends on the talented Maxwell on how he plans to cement himself in the team, and ensure his place for the Ashes later this year in winters.

“In the top six you still want to make it as a batsman,” said Lehmann.”Obviously Mitch Marsh is more of a bowling option and Glenn more the batting option. I’m pleased for him to get the hundred and the challenge now is obviously for him to keep his spot and play well.”

Lehmann expressed joy after seeing his side give India a run for their money, but also said that ultimately Australia just were not good enough for the hosts.

“We were disappointing in a couple of Test matches. We got so close yet so far. One hundred runs short in this game and probably 80 runs in Bangalore,” he said. If we made better decisions with the bat, we’re getting those [wins]. We weren’t good enough in this series … we missed big opportunities to win the series. I’m pleased and proud of the lads … we just fell short in the crucial stages.”

Australia will be looking to train hard from here on, to ensure they are a very competitive side before the start of the much-anticipated rivalry between England and Australia.