Australian cricket’s flamboyant all-rounder, Glenn Maxwell, officially retired from ODI cricket on June 2, 2025. His incredible journey leaves behind a legacy filled with memorable innings, thrilling victories, and countless record-breaking moments. Here’s a closer look at the spectacular career highlights of one of cricket’s most dynamic ODI performers.
A Glance at Maxwell’s Illustrious ODI Career
Glenn Maxwell’s ODI career spanned 149 matches, amassing 3990 runs, grabbing 77 wickets, and taking 91 catches. He etched his name among Australia’s elite by playing key roles in the ICC ODI World Cup triumphs of 2015 and 2023. His hard-hitting style earned him 155 sixes, second only to Ricky Ponting (159) among Australians in ODIs.
ODI Career Stats:
| Matches | Runs | Avg | SR | 100s | 50s | HS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 149 | 3990 | 33.81 | 126.70 | 4 | 23 | 201* |
| Matches | Wkts | Avg | Econ | Best | Catches |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 149 | 77 | 47.32 | 5.46 | 4/40 | 91 |
Highest Batting Strike Rate in ODI History
Maxwell retires with the highest batting strike rate (126.70) in ODI cricket history among batters scoring at least 2000 runs. His explosive style consistently set him apart, overshadowing even formidable hitters like Heinrich Klaasen and Shahid Afridi.
Top Strike Rates (Min. 2000 ODI Runs)
| Player | Matches | Runs | Avg | SR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glenn Maxwell | 149 | 3990 | 33.81 | 126.70 |
| Heinrich Klaasen | 60 | 2141 | 43.69 | 117.05 |
| Shahid Afridi | 398 | 8064 | 23.57 | 117.00 |
| Jos Buttler | 189 | 5233 | 38.76 | 115.13 |
World Cup Heroics
Maxwell’s World Cup record was extraordinary, scoring 901 runs at an average of 47.42, including three centuries. He was instrumental in Australia’s title wins in 2015 and 2023.
The Iconic 201* against Afghanistan (2023)
Arguably Maxwell’s greatest innings came during the 2023 World Cup. With Australia at a precarious 91 for 7, Maxwell smashed an unbeaten 201 off just 128 balls against Afghanistan, securing one of cricket’s most remarkable comebacks. It remains:
- The highest individual ODI score for Australia.
- The fastest double-century in World Cup history (128 balls).
- The first double-century in a World Cup chase.
- Highest score by a non-opening batter in ODI history.
Highest Individual Scores for Australia (ODIs)
| Player | Runs | Opponent | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glenn Maxwell | 201* | Afghanistan | Wankhede | 2023 |
| Shane Watson | 185* | Bangladesh | Mirpur | 2011 |
| Matthew Hayden | 181* | New Zealand | Hamilton | 2007 |
Record-Breaking Partnerships
Maxwell’s 202-run partnership with Pat Cummins against Afghanistan (2023) set a new ODI record for the highest 8th wicket stand.
Highest Partnerships (7th Wicket or Below in ODIs)
| Runs | Pair | Opponent | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 202* | Maxwell & Cummins | Afghanistan | Wankhede | 2023 |
| 177 | Buttler & Rashid | New Zealand | Birmingham | 2015 |
Fastest World Cup Centuries
Maxwell holds two of the fastest World Cup centuries:
- 40-ball century against the Netherlands (fastest ever in World Cup history).
- 51-ball century against Sri Lanka in 2015 (fourth fastest in WC history).
Fastest Centuries in ODI World Cups
| Balls | Player | Against | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | Glenn Maxwell | Netherlands | Delhi | 2023 |
| 49 | Aiden Markram | Australia | Delhi | 2023 |
| 50 | Kevin O’Brien | England | Bengaluru | 2011 |
| 51 | Glenn Maxwell | Sri Lanka | Sydney | 2015 |
Notable Bowling & Fielding Records
Maxwell’s versatility went beyond batting. He captured four wickets in an innings on four occasions and twice took four outfield catches in a single ODI innings—both Australian records.
Maxwell’s Impact in ICC Events
Maxwell ended with an astounding batting strike rate of 155.87 in ICC ODI events (World Cups & Champions Trophy)—the best among any batter with 1000+ runs.
Final Thoughts & Legacy
Glenn Maxwell’s retirement leaves a void in the Australian ODI setup. His combination of explosive batting, effective bowling, and athletic fielding made him one of cricket’s finest all-rounders. While his international ODI journey has ended, Maxwell continues to play T20 cricket, leaving fans more exciting performances to anticipate.
Australian cricket and fans worldwide will forever cherish Maxwell’s fearless approach, game-changing performances, and invaluable contributions to the sport.
