Star Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara has expressed strong views on Australian allrounder Glenn Maxwell’s recent performances in the Indian Premier League, suggesting it’s time Maxwell snaps out of his casual approach and steps up for the Punjab Kings.
Maxwell, who was bought for ₹4.2 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, has had a dismal run with the bat, managing just 41 runs in five matches at an average of 8.2. While his bowling has offered some value — claiming four wickets in six games — his overall contribution remains underwhelming despite a respectable economy rate of 8.46.
Pujara believes that Punjab’s hopes for a title depend significantly on Maxwell’s contributions and emphasized that the allrounder must show more commitment and hunger to help his side succeed.
“He hasn’t changed the way he has approached the IPL. There have been times when he’s been a little casual. He’s the same as he was, maybe eight to ten years ago. I’m a little critical, but there are times when, as a player, you need to wake up,” Pujara said during an appearance on ESPNCricinfo.
“You need to realise you’re getting an opportunity to play and be part of a franchise where things are at stake. And there are times a player can get casual, they’re not worried about what’s happening,” he added.
This isn’t the first season Glenn Maxwell has struggled. In IPL 2024, he fared even worse — scoring just 52 runs across nine matches at a bleak average of 5.77, although he did manage six wickets with the ball.
With Punjab Kings depending on their marquee players to turn things around, all eyes will be on Maxwell to rise to the occasion and justify his price tag.
