In a match that will go down in cricket history, Glenn Maxwell's unbeatable innings of 201 not out spearheaded Australia's dramatic comeback in the 2023 World Cup against Afghanistan at the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday, November 7. Battling severe cramps and back pain, Maxwell's explosive batting – including an unbeaten partnership with Pat Cummins – snatched victory from the brink of defeat.
With Australia's chances looking bleak at 91/7 while chasing 292, Maxwell turned Australia's troubleshooter. What unfolded next was nothing short of a cricketing spectacle, as Maxwell, hobbled by cramps and a bad back, embarked on a one-man demolition of the Afghanistan bowling attack. Partnering with Pat Cummins, who played a supporting role with a steady 12 runs, Maxwell hammered the opposition, dashing Afghanistan's hopes for a semifinal berth with a 202-run partnership that secured Australia's gritty win.
Maxwell's innings wasn't just about the runs; it was a display of indomitable spirit. Despite at times being unable to stand, he delivered a barrage of boundaries and over-the-fence hits that left spectators in awe. Even when confined to the ground, unable to run due to severe cramps, Maxwell's "Big Show" went on. With Cummins as his anchor at the other end, the explosive batter turned the match into a one-sided affair, bludgeoning the Afghan bowlers with a relentless assault of fours and sixes.
Why Maxwell was denied a runner despite sever cramps?
The absence of a runner for the ailing Maxwell sparked curiosity and debate among fans, given that runners had been a part of notable past innings, aiding legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman. However, this option was not available to Maxwell due to a significant rule change by the ICC's Executive Committee, which had eliminated the use of runners for injured batters in ODIs over 12 years prior. This decision was made to maintain clarity in the game's regulations, though runners are still seen in domestic and amateur cricket as per the MCC laws.
The rule came back into the limelight during the earlier Ashes Test at Lord's, when Nathan Lyon, despite a severe calf injury, had to bat without the support of a runner – highlighting the ICC's stringent adherence to the revised playing conditions.
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