Bengaluru’s star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell may miss his team’s upcoming match against Rajasthan on April 6 due to his prolonged poor batting form this season, according to former India batter Aakash Chopra.
Maxwell has struggled with the bat since the start of IPL 2024, scoring only 31 runs in his four innings so far. Many have attributed Bengaluru’s disappointing performance in the tournament to Maxwell’s lack of runs. His poor form has cast doubt on his selection for the crucial match against Rajasthan Royals.
Since being acquired by Royal Challengers Bengaluru during the IPL 2022 auction, Maxwell has become a fan favourite at M Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, this season, the batter has failed to display his trademark explosiveness. He was out for 0 against Chennai Super Kings in the opener, then scored just 3 off 5 balls versus Punjab Kings. Maxwell’s sole substantial knock was 28 off 19 deliveries came against Kolkata Knight Riders. Later, he was dismissed for a second duck against Lucknow on April 2.
“I think Will Jacks should be a part of the playing 11. He could replace Glenn Maxwell in the next game. This could put pressure on captain Faf du Plessis since Will Jacks is an opener. I anticipate this scenario unfolding, so it will be interesting to see when Will Jacks finally gets his chance to play,” Aakash Chopra said.
“Before the tournament, I had said that Will Jacks should be kept in the starting XI, given his incredible form. He is in great touch with both bat and ball, so he should not be left out of the team.” Chopra added.
RCB is currently in 8th place in the IPL 2024 points table after winning only 1 of their first 4 matches. The team now shifts focus to their upcoming game against RR, an opportunity to turn their season around.