Glenn Maxwell Takes Indefinite Break from Indian Premier League for Mental and Physical Health
News Mania Desk / Agnibeena Ghosh/19th April 2024
Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has made the decision to take an indefinite break from the Indian Premier League (IPL) to focus on his mental and physical well-being. Maxwell, aged 35, expressed his desire to step away from the tournament after experiencing a dip in form, managing to score only 32 runs in Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s first six matches. He approached the team management and requested to be excluded from Monday’s game against Sunrisers Hyderabad, which ended in a 25-run defeat for Bengaluru.
This isn’t the first time Maxwell has taken a break from cricket for mental health reasons. In 2019, he opted for a similar hiatus to safeguard his mental well-being. Regarding his current decision, Maxwell stated, “For me, personally, it was a pretty easy decision.” He further explained that he approached captain Faf du Plessis and the coaches after the last game, expressing his feeling that it was time for someone else to be given an opportunity in the team.
Maxwell, who has also contributed with the ball by taking four wickets this season, entered the IPL in good batting form, boasting an impressive average of 42.26 in 17 T20 matches since November, with a strike-rate of 185.85. His standout performances include scoring the fastest century in 50-over World Cup history against the Netherlands and achieving a maiden double century against Afghanistan, which contributed to Australia’s triumph in the tournament.
Reflecting on his recent form, Maxwell expressed frustration, stating, “I don’t think I’ve had a better six months in cricket leading into this tournament so it’s frustrating when it ends up like this.” He acknowledged the unpredictable nature of T20 cricket and emphasized that he wasn’t contributing positively with the bat. Given the team’s position on the table and the disappointing results, Maxwell believed it was an opportune moment to give someone else a chance.
Maxwell’s decision to take a temporary break underscores the challenges faced by players in managing the demands of global franchise leagues while prioritizing their mental and physical health. This trend has been observed in other cricketers as well, such as England Test captain Ben Stokes, who took a five-month hiatus from cricket in 2021. Stokes’ decision to step back from one-day internationals and subsequently withdraw from consideration for the T20 World Cup highlights the need for players to balance their commitments and well-being.
As Maxwell focuses on his recovery, the cricketing community rallies around him, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness and support within the sport. His decision serves as a reminder of the significance of self-care and seeking help when needed, ensuring that players can perform at their best both on and off the field.
