Australia face another setback. Glenn Maxwell has been ruled out of the T20I series against New Zealand after fracturing his right wrist. The injury happened when he was struck by a Mitchell Owen straight drive while bowling in the nets at Mount Maunganui.
Maxwell has returned home and will see a specialist in the coming days. Australia’s medical staff expect a quick recovery, but he is in serious doubt for the five-match India T20I series starting October 29. The allrounder is more likely to return for the BBL in mid-December, depending on specialist advice.
This is another blow in Maxwell’s injury-hit career, following his broken leg in 2022.
Josh Philippe Called In
With Maxwell out, Josh Philippe, Sydney Sixers’ wicketkeeper-batter, has been called up. Philippe was close to selection earlier when Josh Inglis was ruled out with a calf injury, but Alex Carey was preferred.
Now, Philippe joins the squad mainly to cover for Carey, as Australia only had one keeper in the original team. Maxwell was even considered as a short-term keeping option before his injury
Australia’s Selection Headaches
Australia’s T20 World Cup 2026 plans are getting complicated. With Maxwell and Inglis out, they lose two of their most dynamic and versatile batters.
Cameron Green is also missing, as he stayed back for Sheffield Shield cricket to prepare for the Ashes. He will skip the India T20Is too.
On top of that, Pat Cummins is out due to a back hot spot. Nathan Ellis will also miss the New Zealand series for the birth of his first child.
Who Fills the Gaps?
Maxwell was Australia’s fifth bowler and a key match-up option against New Zealand’s left-handers. Now, others will have to step up:
- Matt Short returns from injury and will bowl overs.
- Marcus Stoinis is back and will cover Green’s bowling role.
- Mitch Marsh remains unlikely to bowl.
- Travis Head may get more opportunities with his offspin, though he has bowled just six overs in 41 T20Is.
Philippe’s Return
Philippe returns to the T20I squad for the first time since 2023. He impressed with the bat for Australia A in India, scoring 123*, 39, and 50 in Lucknow.
However, his T20 numbers raise questions. In the last two BBL seasons, he has just one half-century and a strike rate under 130. His T20I record is also modest, with only two scores above 13 in 12 matches and a strike rate of 109.48.
Australia chose Carey for his finishing ability. Philippe usually opens and has rarely batted lower than No. 4 in his career.
What It Means for Australia
The injuries leave Australia juggling combinations just months before they want to lock in their best XI for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Maxwell’s absence removes both a power-hitting option and a bowling option. Philippe’s selection adds depth, but questions remain about his consistency.
For now, Australia will hope Maxwell recovers quickly — but his long run of injuries continues to test both him and the team.
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