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Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting has recently expressed his opinion regarding Glenn Maxwell's place in Test cricket. Despite Maxwell's significant role in Australia's victory at the 2023 ODI World Cup, Ponting believes that Maxwell does not fit into the Australian Test team. Maxwell's absence from Australia's Test squad against Pakistan has been a point of discussion, especially after his impactful performances in one-day internationals.
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Ponting, speaking to 7news.com.au, pointed out that Maxwell's limited first-class cricket record is a key reason for his exclusion from Test cricket. He emphasized that Maxwell's first-class performance, which typically serves as a benchmark for Test selection, has not been substantial enough to earn him a spot in the longer format of the game. Maxwell, who last appeared in a Test match for Australia in 2017, has a modest record in Test cricket, with 339 runs from seven matches at an average of 26.08, including a century.
"No one deserves a chance unless you've got a truckload of first-class runs behind you. I'm a no, he doesn't deserve it. But if he gets a chance to go back and make some first-class runs then he can force his way back in," Ponting said.
Despite this, Maxwell himself has not given up on his aspirations in Test cricket. In a conversation with SEN, he acknowledged the strength and depth of the current Australian Test squad, particularly noting their status as World Test champions. He understands the challenges of securing a spot in such a formidable team.
"I'm quite understanding of the circumstances of the current side. They're playing some really good cricket, they're World Test champions. There are not a lot of spots up for grabs as far as Tests at home. But I know that when it does come to a sub-continent tour I can be a real viable option to hopefully fill a role in that side. So, I'll keep trying to plug away and hopefully get an opportunity at that stage," said Maxwell.
Meanwhile, Australia's Test series against Pakistan is underway, with the first match being played at Perth's Optus Stadium. Australia has put up a strong performance, bolstered by David Warner's outstanding century, achieving a commanding total of 487 runs.
Ponting's comments add another layer to the ongoing debate about the balance between talent and statistics in cricket, especially when it comes to the selection of players for different formats of the game.
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