Coming into RCB, they wanted me to do the same role as I did for Australia: Glenn Maxwell

Glenn Maxwell continued his scintillating form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as his 33 balls 57 helped the team get over the line by six runs against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Sharjah Cricket Stadium. On account of this stunning victory, RCB qualified for the playoffs in the UAE leg of the IPL.

The right-hand batter’s tremendous form has also coincided with RCB hitting top gear during the business end of the tournament. The all-rounder has batted at number four and he has revealed that RCB always had that same position on their mind. Incidentally, Maxwell has batted at number four for Australia as well and has done well at that role in the T20Is.

When RCB signed him for the auctions, RCB director Mike Hesson and former coach Simon Katich had the vision of Maxwell playing at number four position and so far, it has paid rich dividends.

“Not much has been different, came at a nice time out to bat, took a bit of time to assess the conditions, got away with the first couple of risks that I took, and then started off. A bit of clarity, I think I have been clear in my mind over the last couple of seasons in the IPL as well as professional cricket. I have found a nice bit of rhythm. Batting at 4, sometimes it’s not the easiest position to bat – but the openers gave us an ideal set-up, took a bit of time to understand the wicket,” Maxwell told to Star Sports at the post-match presentation.

Clarity in the role has helped me have success at the RCB: Glenn Maxwell

So far, Maxwell has scored 407 runs in 12 games for RCB this year and he feels he has had success because of clarity in his role to bat at number four. “This is something I have had with Australia for a long period of time (clarity in the role), this is perhaps why I have had success over there. Coming into RCB, they wanted me to do the same type of role. Really enjoyable to come into the dressing room and not make too many changes.

“This Sharjah wicket is the toughest to adjust, the ball skidded through, and unlike at the other venues where the ball held up and gave you some time to go onto the back foot. Once you get used to it, the more time you spend, the easier it gets”, he added.

Virat Kohli-led RCB will face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Wednesday (6 October).