Glenn Maxwell joins Hyderabad Kingsmen ahead of Karachi Kings clash

KARACHI: Glenn Maxwell has arrived in Pakistan and linked up with Hyderabad Kingsmen ahead of their crucial Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11 fixture against Karachi Kings on Saturday.

The franchise confirmed the Australian all-rounder’s arrival through their official social media platforms, sharing a picture of Maxwell settling into his hotel room with a caption welcoming their high-profile addition.

Maxwell, widely regarded as one of the most explosive T20 players in modern cricket, is set to make his PSL debut this season, bringing both experience and firepower to a struggling Kingsmen outfit.

The right-handed batter boasts an impressive T20I record, having scored 2897 runs in 129 matches at a remarkable strike rate of 158.42, including five centuries and 12 half-centuries. His all-round credentials further strengthen his value, with 49 wickets to his name in the format.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

In 503 T20 matches, he has accumulated 10986 runs at a strike rate exceeding 154, alongside 196 wickets, making him one of the most sought-after players in leagues around the world, including the Big Bash League (BBL), Indian Premier League (IPL), The Hundred and the Vitality Blast.

His arrival comes at a critical juncture for the Marnus Labuschagne-led Kingsmen, who are yet to register a win in the ongoing season. The side has endured a tough start, losing all four of their matches and sitting near the bottom of the points table with a negative net run rate.

READ: Mohammad Rizwan opens up after Rawalpindiz fifth straight loss

Glenn Maxwell axed as Cricket Australia unveil central contract list

Young opening batter Sam Konstas and veteran all-rounder Glenn Maxwell were axed on Wednesday as Cricket Australia (CA) announced a list of 21 nationally contracted players for the 2026-27 season.

Australia, who will play 20 Tests in a 12-month period from August, have opted to go with opener Jake Weatherald, 31, instead of the out-of-form 20-year-old Konstas.

With Australia facing such a Test-heavy schedule, white-ball specialists Maxwell and Matt Short were also dropped from last year’s list, along with retired opener Usman Khawaja and injured fast bowler Lance Morris.

A surprise was the omission of fast bowler Jhye Richardson, who played his first Test in four years in the Boxing Day Ashes clash.

The 29-year-old had been touted as one of the natural successors to Australia’s ageing pace stalwarts Mitchell Starc (36), Josh Hazlewood (35) and Scott Boland (36).

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Cricket Australia (CA) instead opted to reward fellow Ashes-winning quick bowlers Brendan Doggett, who is 31, and the 36-year-old Michael Neser.

“The next 12 months encompasses a busy Test schedule across a range of conditions and challenges,” said chair of men’s selectors George Bailey. “This is reflected in the contract list through a predominance of Test and multi-format players for this cycle.”

Australia start their 2026-27 season with a two-match home series against Bangladesh in August. They will travel for three ODIs in Zimbabwe, plus three ODIs and three Tests in South Africa during September and October.

Australia return home for a white-ball series against England followed by 10 Tests in 14 weeks, starting with four at home to New Zealand in December and January.

A five-Test tour of India begins on January 21, and the season will end with the 150th anniversary Test against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in March 2027.

Cricket Australia central contract list for 2026-27

Xavier Bartlett, Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Pat Cummins, Brendan Doggett, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster, Adam Zampa

READ: Adam Zampa reveals why he opted for PSL instead of IPL

Jason Gillespie provides update on Glenn Maxwell, Maaz Sadaqat availability

LAHORE: Hyderabad Kingsmen head coach Jason Gillespie has provided a key update on the availability of star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell and emerging talent Maaz Sadaqat for the upcoming games of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11.

Speaking during a media interaction on Saturday, Gillespie confirmed that Maxwell is expected to join the squad later in the tournament, although his exact arrival date remains uncertain.

Catch all the PSL 11 updates here!

“We have to wait. He is locked in for the back half of the tournament,” Gillespie said. “The exact date of his arrival, we’re not sure yet. We’re waiting for more information, but hopefully he will join us soon.”

Moreover, Gillespie sounded optimistic about the fitness of young all-rounder Maaz Sadaqat, who missed the opening match against Lahore Qalandars due to injury concerns.

“Maaz has started training today. He’s an important part of our squad,” he said.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“We’re hopeful he will be available for selection tomorrow [for the match against Quetta Gladiators]. It depends on how he trains and recovers, but if everything goes well, he’ll certainly be in strong consideration.”

Both Hyderabad Kingsmen and Quetta Gladiators head into Sunday’s encounter seeking their first win of the tournament after suffering defeats in their respective opening matches.

READ: Jason Gillespie breaks silence on relationship with PCB

Major update regarding Maxwell’s availability for PSL 11

Hyderabad Kingsmen owner Fawad Sarwar provided an update on the availability of star batter Glenn Maxwell for Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11. 

The tournament will run from March 26 behind closed doors across two venues in Pakistan.

Sarwar confirmed during a live stream on the franchise’s social handle that Maxwell will be available during the second half of the tournament.

“Due to the geopolitical situation, Maxwell will join Hyderabad Kingsmen in the second half and will stay until the end of the season,” Sarwar said.

This will be the talismanic batter’s first appearance in the PSL, having previously represented several teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Glenn Maxwell, 37, has extensive experience with 129 T20I matches and scored 2,897 runs at a strike rate of 158.42.

Overall, he has played 502 T20s, amassing 10,986 runs at an average of 27.53, including eight centuries and 58 half-centuries. The right-hander has also recorded the highest score of 154.

For those unaware, PSL 11 will be played from March 26 behind closed doors at two venues, Lahore and Karachi.

Hyderabad Kingsmen will play their debut match against the defending champions Lahore Qalandars at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.

Hyderabad Kingsmen Squad for PSL 11:

Marnus Labuschagne (c), Usman Khan, Akif Javed, Maaz Sadaqat, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Ali, Kusal Perera, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Hassan Khan, Shayan Jahangir, Glenn Maxwell, Hammad Azam, Riley Meredith, Sharjeel Khan, Asif Mehmood, Hunain Shah, Rizwan Mehmood, Saad Ali, Tayyab Arif, and Ahmed Hussain.

READ: Spinners help South Africa level T20I series against New Zealand

Glenn Maxwell reacts after joining Hyderabad for PSL 11

Star Australian batter Glenn Maxwell has expressed his excitement after joining Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11.

The right-hander expressed his excitement about participating in the PSL and representing Hyderabad.

“I’m thrilled to be playing in the Pakistan Super League and to represent Hyderabad. It’s an honor to wear the team’s jersey, and I have always received so much love and support from Pakistan, which makes this experience even more special,” he remarked.

“I’m looking forward to the season and can’t wait to be part of the action. See you all in the PSL,” he added.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

It is worth noting that Glenn Maxwell has been part of the Indian Premier League (IPL) every season since his debut in 2012, representing four teams in 141 matches.

Earlier this year, Maxwell announced that he would not take part in the IPL.

“After many unforgettable seasons in the IPL, I’ve decided not to put my name into the auction this year. It’s a big call, and one I make with immense gratitude for everything this league has given me,” Maxwell had written in his Instagram post.

The explosive batter will join his compatriot Marnus Labuschagne in the squad, who was also picked as a direct signing for the tournament.

For the unversed, Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen secured their place in the PSL after being acquired by Fawad Sarwar’s Kingsmen Group, who won the franchise rights with a bid worth Rs1.75 billion (approximately $6.25 million).

Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen squad:

Saim Ayub, Akif Javed, Maaz Sadaqat, Marnus Labuschagne (Direct Signing), Glenn Maxwell, Usman Khan, Mohammad Ali, Kusal Perera, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Hassan Khan, Shayan Jahangir, Ottniel Baartman, Hammad Azam, Riley Meredith, Sharjeel Khan, Asif Mehmood, Hunain Shah, Rizwan Mehmood, Saad Ali, and Tayyab Arif.

READ: T20 World Cup: Unbeaten Zimbabwe stun Sri Lanka in thrilling win

PSL 11: Hyderabad boost squad with Glenn Maxwell signing

The newly added Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen have signed Australia ace all-rounder Glenn Maxwell ahead of the landmark season 11.

The signing was confirmed via the franchise’s official social media accounts.

“𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑷𝑳𝑨𝒀𝑴𝑨𝑲𝑬𝑹. 𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑩𝑰𝑮-𝑺𝑻𝑨𝑮𝑬 𝑩𝑬𝑨𝑺𝑻. 𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑿-𝑭𝑨𝑪𝑻𝑶𝑹. Impossible? That’s not a word in his dictionary,” the franchise wrote.

“Inevitable? Nothing but destruction. Hold onto your seats tight, the biggest show in #HBLPSL is about to begin,” it added.

This will be the talismanic batter’s first appearance in the PSL, having previously represented several teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Glenn Maxwell, 37, has extensive experience with 129 T20I matches and scored 2,897 runs at a strike rate of 158.42.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Overall, he has played 502 T20s, amassing 10,986 runs at an average of 27.53, including eight centuries and 58 half-centuries. The right-hander has also recorded the highest score of 154.

For the unversed, Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen secured their place in the PSL after being acquired by Fawad Sarwar’s Kingsmen Group, who won the franchise rights with a bid worth Rs1.75 billion (approximately $6.25 million).

On the field, the franchise has begun shaping a competitive squad.

They retained promising talents Saim Ayub, Usman Khan, Maaz Sadaqat, and Akif Javed, while also strengthening their lineup with the direct signing of Australian star batter Marnus Labuschagne for the upcoming season.

The team has also assembled an experienced coaching staff. Former Australia fast bowler Jason Gillespie has been appointed head coach, with Grant Bradburn set to serve as fielding coach under his leadership.

The landmark PSL 11 season is scheduled to begin on March 26, while the much-anticipated player auction will take place on February 11.

Hyderabad Houston Kingsmen squad:

Saim Ayub, Akif Javed, Maaz Sadaqat, Marnus Labuschagne (Direct Signing), Glenn Maxwell, Usman Khan, Mohammad Ali, Kusal Perera, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Hassan Khan, Shayan Jahangir, Ottniel Baartman, Hammad Azam, Riley Meredith, Sharjeel Khan, Asif Mehmood, Hunain Shah, Rizwan Mehmood, Saad Ali, and Tayyab Arif.

READ: T20 World Cup: Unbeaten Zimbabwe stun Sri Lanka in thrilling win

Steve Waugh, Glenn Maxwell among team owners in European T20 League

The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) has taken a major step forward with the announcement of its first set of franchise owners, headlined by Australian great Steve Waugh and current all-rounder Glenn Maxwell.

The six-team competition, scheduled to begin later this year, is set to make history as the first ICC-sanctioned T20 league to be staged across multiple countries.

The ETPL will operate across Ireland, Scotland and the Netherlands, marking a significant push to expand the game’s footprint in Europe.

The league is a joint venture between Cricket Ireland and India-based Rules Global (Rules X), in strategic collaboration with Cricket Scotland and the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB).

Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan is a co-owner of the league, alongside three Indian investors, including Dhiraj Malhotra, the former CEO of IPL franchise Delhi Capitals.

Among the franchises already sold, Amsterdam, Belfast and Edinburgh have confirmed ownership groups, while teams in Dublin, Rotterdam and Glasgow are expected to be finalised in the coming weeks.

Steve Waugh is part of a consortium that will own the Amsterdam-based franchise, named Amsterdam Flames. The group also includes former Australian field hockey star Jamie Dwyer.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Glenn Maxwell, meanwhile, will co-own the Irish Wolves franchise alongside Rohan Lund, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of Australian insurance giant NRMA.

Former New Zealand internationals Kyle Mills and Nathan McCullum have also invested in the league, with the duo purchasing the Edinburgh franchise.

Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Waugh expressed enthusiasm about the response from the cricketing community and the league’s broader vision.

“We’ve approached a number of players and haven’t had one negative comment at all,” Waugh said.

“They’re fascinated by the concept, particularly because it’s something new in Europe. The potential to grow the game in a new market and help develop European and continental players is really exciting.”

The inaugural season of the ETPL is scheduled to run from August 26 to September 20, with matches to be played in Ireland and the Netherlands. Final venue details are expected to be confirmed in due course.

READ: PCB backs Bangladesh in T20 World Cup venue dispute, writes to ICC

Glenn Maxwell withdraws from IPL 2026 auction

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has confirmed he will not be registering for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, bringing an end, at least temporarily, to a remarkable chapter of his T20 career.

Taking to Instagram, Maxwell described the decision as a “big call” and reflected on the impact the IPL has had on him both as a cricketer and as a person.

“After many unforgettable seasons in the IPL, I’ve decided not to put my name in the auction this year. It’s a big call, and one I make with a lot of gratitude for everything this league has given me,” the 37-year-old wrote.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

Maxwell, who has been one of the most sought-after overseas players in the IPL for over a decade, expressed his appreciation for the franchises he has represented, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), and Punjab Kings, as well as the fans whose “passion is unmatched.”

“The memories, the challenges, and the energy of India will stay with me forever. Thank you for all your support over the years. Hopefully, see you soon,” he added.

Over 141 IPL matches, Maxwell amassed 2,819 runs at a strike rate of over 155, while also contributing with his off-spin.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Glenn Maxwell (@gmaxi_32)

His IPL journey included standout performances for Punjab Kings and RCB, though he also had stints with Mumbai Indians and Delhi Daredevils.

He lifted the IPL trophy once, as a fringe player for MI in 2013.

It’s worth noting that Glenn Maxwell joins a growing list of high-profile players to opt out of the IPL 2026 auction, following Faf du Plessis and Moeen Ali, who opted to feature in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 season.

READ: PCB confirms Pakistan’s 2026 T20I tour of Sri Lanka

Glenn Maxwell hails Dewald Brevis as South Africa’s next AB de Villiers

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has heaped praise on young South African batter Dewald Brevis, widely known as “Baby AB,” drawing parallels with the legendary AB de Villiers.

Brevis, 22, has long carried the tag since his Under-19 days, but his recent exploits are now matching the hype.

In the second T20I against Australia, he smashed an unbeaten 125 off just 56 deliveries, laced with 12 fours and eight sixes, at a strike rate of 223. The innings lifted South Africa to 218 for 7 and sealed a 53-run victory.

That knock also propelled him up the ICC T20I rankings, where he jumped 80 spots to 21st with a career-best 614 rating points.

Speaking to Australian media, Glenn Maxwell acknowledged that while the nickname was flattering, it came with extra baggage.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

“It’s a pretty heavy burden he had to bear early in his career. He probably got fast-tracked a little bit into the South African side,” said Maxwell.

“He’s gone away, worked on his game, and he’s come back playing beautifully. His bat swing is really pure; he’s hard to stop when he gets going.”

Notably, Dewald Brevis has been equally impressive in franchise cricket. After a quiet stint with the Mumbai Indians, he joined the Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025 as an injury replacement for INR 2.2 crore.

He quickly made an impact, scoring 225 runs in six games at a strike rate of 180, including two half-centuries.

So far, Brevis has represented South Africa in two Tests and 10 T20Is. With his current form, he is now in strong contention for the upcoming ODI series against Australia, which begins on August 19.

READ: Mohsin Naqvi assures full support for Pakistan hockey team’s Pro League participation

Maxwell, Green star as Australia take 4-0 lead over West Indies in T20I series

Cameron Green, unbeaten 55, and Glenn Maxwell, quick-fire 47, propelled Australia to a three-wicket win over the West Indies in the fourth match of their Twenty20 International series.

West Indies were 205 for nine after being sent to bat first after the visitors won the toss, but took five wickets after the midpoint to keep the pressure on Australia chasing 206 to win.

The Aussies seized a 4-0 lead in the five-match series and can complete a sweep by winning Monday’s finale at Warner Park.

Green struck his half-century off 35 balls with three sixes and three fours, while Inglis had one six and 10 fours in 30 balls, and Glenn Maxwell had 47 runs off 18 balls, hitting six sixes and a four.

But a night after Tim David bashed Australia’s fastest T20I century off only 37 balls, he was rested from the Aussie lineup, and the chase had some tense moments.

Australia’s Mitchell Marsh was out lbw for a second-ball duck from West Indies left-arm fast-medium pace bowler Jediah Blades.

Inglis entered to partner with Maxwell but flew out to deep backward square, caught by Sherfane Rutherford off a ball from Romario Shepherd to start the seventh over, leaving the Aussies on 66 for two.

The visitors reached 129 for two at the drinks break, but on the next ball to start the 11th over, Glenn Maxwell was caught by Jason Holder at long on from a Akeal Hosein delivery.

Blades bowled Mitchell Owen for two thanks to Rutherford’s deep cover grab and two balls later Blades got his third wicket, sending off Cooper Connolly for a duck on Holder’s mid-off catch, the Aussies stuck on 134 for five.

Holder took Aaron Hardie for 23 on a long off catch by Shimron Hetmyer to open the 17th over with the Aussies still 21 runs from victory.

Follow us on our Official WhatsApp channel

A drive by Green deflected off Shepherd’s fingers and into the stumps of Xavier Bartlett out of his ground, his seventh wicket gone for nine, and the Aussies two runs from victory.

Green, however, scored runs off the next two deliveries, and Sean Abbott pushed Australia across the line, scoring the final run with four balls to spare.

West Indies managed only a top score of 31 as Aussie fielders shone.

Bartlett bowled out Brandon King for 18 when he chipped out midwicket to Hardie, and removed Shai Hope for 10 after Maxwell made a diving catch mid-on.

Maxwell made a one-handed grab to retire Roston Chase for nil off a Hardie delivery, leaving West Indies on 42 for three, only one ball into the fifth over.

Rutherford went out for 31 when caught by Marsh at backward point off a nice delivery from Adam Zampa to make it 67 for four.

Owen made a diving catch at deep backward point to retire Hetmyer on 16.

Maxwell struck again for the seventh wicket, flicking the ball before going over the boundary so Green could make the catch and send off Shepherd on 28.

Green then caught Matthew Forde for 15 to put the West Indies on 184 for eight.

Rain hit with four balls remaining, but after a 55-minute delay, the hosts scored two final runs.

READ: Kamran Akmal’s blazing ton helps Pakistan Champions crush West Indies