'I think they've shown a lot of fight' - Glenn Maxwell defends Australian players amidst media outcry

Amidst the criticism of Australian players after a dismal showing in the second Test against India in Delhi, star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has backed his compatriots to succeed in the subcontinent. Maxwell feels that the Australian players have shown tremendous fight in 'foreign' conditions, only losing the plot in a couple of disappointing sessions.

Australia had their noses in front after a couple of hard-fought days in the Delhi Test. But the visitors lost the plot in the morning session of the third day, losing nine wickets in one session. Maxwell feels that barring that session, the Australian players have been up for it in the series against a formidable team in Indian conditions. 

"I think they've shown a lot of fight. Barring that one session I thought they were outstanding. It's bloody difficult over there - it's not an easy place to play, it's so foreign for us. But I feel like, apart from a couple of little moments, we've been in the fight, we've been matching India at different times, and they've shown a lot of fight," he was quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald.

The star allrounder, who was sidelined after an unfortunate leg injury last year, reckoned that if they can take the fight to the Indians a bit longer, they will be able to keep up with the Asian giants on their home turf. The explosive batter will be part of the Australian side taking on India in a three-match ODI series next month.

"It's just sticking it out for a little bit longer and I'm sure that'll be the message, to keep trying to stay up with India and take a hold of those key moments in the game. At the start of day three [in Delhi] I thought we were well ahead in the game, and to be ahead of India at any stage of a Test match over there is a sign we're doing the right things, it's just doing it for a little bit longer," he added.

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