In a remarkable display of cricketing prowess, Australia’s all-rounder Glenn Maxwell not only steered his team to victory in the third T20I against India in Guwahati but also etched his name in the record books. Maxwell’s unbeaten 47-ball century, a feat that mirrors India skipper Rohit Sharma’s record, played a pivotal role in securing a crucial win for the Baggy Greens, keeping the series alive.
Maxwell’s blitzkrieg century, achieved in just 47 balls, also equalled the record previously set by Aaron Finch and Josh Inglis for the fastest ton by an Australian in men’s T20Is. Additionally, Maxwell joined Rohit Sharma in another shared record, boasting the most centuries in men’s T20Is with his fourth hundred in the format.
This exceptional performance mirrored Maxwell’s past success, with his previous T20I century against India in Bengaluru in 2019 during another significant run-chase successfully accomplished by Australia.
Coming in to bat during the final over of the powerplay after a solid start by opener Travis Head, Maxwell was tasked with resurrecting the innings, particularly after Marcus Stoinis’s struggles in the middle overs. Maxwell, renowned for his World Cup heroics against Afghanistan, showcased his brilliance by reaching 42 off 22 balls when Stoinis departed, leaving Australia with a target of 95 runs from seven overs.
Maxwell’s power-packed batting, highlighted by back-to-back sixes in Arshdeep’s over, set the stage for Australia’s surge in the death overs. A dropped catch by Suryakumar Yadav off rival skipper Matthew Wade proved costly for India, as Maxwell capitalized on the opportunity. The final two overs, bowled by Prasidh Krishna and Axar Patel, witnessed a whirlwind of runs, with Maxwell leading the charge.
With 21 runs to defend in the last over, Prasidh Krishna found himself at the receiving end of Maxwell’s onslaught, and Australia secured a thrilling victory by five wickets, ensuring the series remains alive.