In a significant move, Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell is poised to step away from the Indian Premier League, marking only the second hiatus of his lucrative T20 career. The 37-year-old has opted not to enter his name for the upcoming player auction, signalling a potential break from the high-octane tournament.
Form Slump and Kings Release Prompt Decision
The decision follows a challenging period for the explosive batsman. Maxwell averaged a mere 5.78 runs in the 2024 IPL season. His 2025 campaign was even more difficult, amassing just 48 runs with a highest score of 30 before an injury cut his season short.
This dip in form led to his release from the Punjab Kings, coached by Australian legend Ricky Ponting. Ponting confirmed the franchise felt Maxwell would not be a first-choice selection for their 2026 plans. "I love Glenn and what he brings to the game. Unfortunately, last season we weren’t able to get the best out of him," Ponting told Star Sports.
"Looking ahead to next season, we didn't feel he would be part of our starting team, so we decided to release him," Ponting added, highlighting the tough but pragmatic call.
High-Risk Option Sidesteps Auction
Had Maxwell nominated, he would have presented a classic high-risk, high-reward proposition for other IPL teams at the December 16 auction. Instead, he chooses a break, his first since skipping the 2019 edition in a bid to reclaim his spot in the Australian Test side.
Despite stepping back from the IPL, Maxwell remains committed to domestic T20 cricket in Australia. He will continue as a key part of the Melbourne Stars for the upcoming Big Bash League summer.
Other Australians in the Auction Mix
While Maxwell steps away, several other Australian players have thrown their hats in the ring for the IPL auction. Notable nominations include:
- Cameron Green: The all-rounder, who has previously commanded a $3 million contract, missed the 2025 tournament with a back injury but is expected to be in high demand after proving his fitness.
- Steve Smith: The experienced batsman is again available for selection.
- Sean Abbott and Ashton Agar: The bowling all-rounders will be seeking new contracts.
- Rising stars: Exciting but inconsistent talents Cooper Connolly and Jake Fraser-McGurk have also nominated.
In a related move, Australian wicketkeeper-batsman Josh Inglis has nominated for the auction despite also being released by the Punjab Kings. Ponting explained the decision was due to availability concerns, not talent. "Josh is a terrific player. I would have loved to have had him... But he wasn't going to be available for the majority of the tournament," Ponting stated.
Maxwell's absence from the IPL auction marks the end of an era for one of the tournament's most charismatic and highly-paid overseas stars, as he focuses on resetting after a tough run of form.
