'No different to a cover drive,' says batsman
No reverse regret for Maxwell
Returning T20 star Glenn Maxwell has defended his decision to attempt the reverse sweep in Australia’s second Test defeat in the UAE, explaining it was part of an overall strategy to reduce the pressure being built by the Pakistan spinners.
Maxwell, who will tonight turn out in green and gold at the MCG for the second KFC T20 International, was pilloried by some for opting to play the unorthodox sweep in circumstances that appeared to demand conservative batting, as Australia attempted to save the Test.
But the Victorian argued the tactic was a carefully considered one, which had the support of Australia’s coaching staff.
"On a fourth- and fifth-day wicket you need to put the pressure on the bowlers and get rid of those bat pads,” Maxwell told Fairfax.
“My plan was to try to get rid of those guys as early as possible in my innings and hopefully get into my innings and make it easier to get singles and manipulate the field. Unfortunately it didn't quite come off.
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The reverse sweep has become a regular shot in Maxwell's repertoire // Getty Images
"They back me to play that reverse sweep no matter what the situation of the game. They understand for me that it's no different from a cover drive for any other batter.
“They have instilled confidence in me to play that shot and they have seen it come off time and again.
“They accept the fact that for me it's a normal shot, it's no different from someone else getting beaten in defence.
“My best form of defence is attack anyway, so they would much rather me go out playing my natural game than defending and getting caught at bat pad.”
Former Test captain Allan Border believes Maxwell will be instrumental in Australia’s World Cup campaign, which begins next Friday (November 14) at the WACA Ground in Perth.
"I think Glenn Maxwell is on the threshold of a breakout period," Border said. "He's got the talent, the skills.
“It's just sort of corralling all that when he's out in the middle.
“This could be his season to really break free and really show the multi talents that he's got.”