Australia's veteran all-rounder Glenn Maxwell gave a Player of the Match performance during the third T20I against South Africa at Cazaly's Stadium on Saturday, with both bat and field playing decisive roles. His all-round excellence not only ensured a heart-stopping two-wicket victory for the hosts but also helped him equal David Warner's elusive fielding record and overtake India's T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav in the six-hitting rankings.
While Maxwell's batting wizardry made headlines, Maxwell's wizardry in the field went about making history silently. The turning point was when South African sensation Dewald Brevis was set to steal the game away with a breathtaking 22-ball fifty. Nathan Ellis bowled a slower short ball, and Brevis completely mishit a pull shot. Maxwell ran from the deep, and he timed it to perfection, effecting a sharp two-handed catch.
That catch was Maxwell's 62nd outfield catch in T20 internationals and left him tied with former teammate David Warner for most by an Australian. His fielding effort brought a halt to Brevis' fireworks at 53 (26) and proved to be the turning point of the innings.
Australia's pursuit of 174 was in deep trouble at 122/6, but Maxwell stood up to the challenge. As soon as he joined the fray, he showed intent, clearing the boundaries with ease. His two maximums brought his career total to 148 T20I sixes, moving him above Suryakumar Yadav's career total of 146. He is now sixth on the all-time list behind Rohit Sharma (205), Martin Guptill (173), Muhammad Waseem (168), Jos Buttler (160), and Nicholas Pooran (149).
Maxwell demonstrated his characteristic improvisation and skill for identifying openings in a tight spot. He cut the equation to run-a-ball prior to the 18th over, keeping Australia within reach.
The game, however, had a last twist. In the last but one over, Corbin Bosch produced a dramatic double-wicket maiden, with Australia requiring 10 from six balls. Maxwell, on strike in the last over against Lungi Ngidi, ran a double before cutting the off-side with a boundary. After two nervy dot balls, he played a trademark reverse scoop over short third to win with a ball to spare.
Maxwell finished unbeaten on 62 off 36 deliveries, taking Australia to a 2-1 series victory. The knock continued Australia's incredible record in Cairns, remaining unbeaten in men's internationals at the ground over eight matches.
For South Africa, the defeat was their seventh T20I series loss in the past 10 matches, highlighting their inconsistency despite the potential displayed by up-and-coming stars like Brevis.
Maxwell's winning performance, on the other hand, cemented his status as one of T20 cricket's most influential all-rounders a player who can turn games with bat, ball, and with the field.
