Australia’s Glenn Maxwell ruled out of T20I series vs New Zealand; surprise replacement announced

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Australian superstar all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has been ruled out of the three-match T20I series against New Zealand after suffering a fractured wrist, in what is a huge blow for Australia. The injury occurred during a net session at Mount Maunganui, forcing the 36-year-old to return home immediately to see a specialist.

Batter-wicketkeeper Josh Philippe has been named as the replacement in the squad for the series. This incident marks the second injury-enforced change for Australia this month, complicating their preparations for next year’s T20 World Cup. Maxwell is now facing a tight timeline to be fit for the upcoming T20I series against India. Australia has called up batter-wicketkeeper Philippe to their T20I squad as Maxwell’s replacement, a significant return to the setup after a period of almost two years.

Philippe last played in the format back in December 2023, and his selection rewards his excellent recent form both domestically and on the ‘A’ tour. He is highly regarded as a prolific run-scorer in Australia’s Big Bash League, where his consistency and aggressive style have continually impressed selectors. His selection follows a successful stint on the recent Australia ‘A’ tour of India where he excelled, ultimately being named the Player of the Series.

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The highly anticipated three-match T20 International (T20I) series between trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand and Australia is set to commence this week, offering a key tune-up for both sides ahead of the T20 World Cup. All three matches in the short series will be contested at the same venue: Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.

Historically, the rivalry is significant, with the two nations famously contesting the first-ever international T20 match back in 2005. While they share a deep-seated rivalry, particularly for the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy, this short-format series marks only the fourth multi-game bilateral men’s T20I series between them. Their last series ended in a 3-0 clean sweep victory for Australia in February 2024, but New Zealand has previously edged them out, winning 3-2 in 2021.

The schedule for the three-match series is as follows:

New Zealand will be looking to capitalize on their recent success at the venue, having won their last four men’s T20Is at Bay Oval. Australia, meanwhile, will be seeking to maintain their strong overall T20I record against the Black Caps, which currently stands at 13 wins to New Zealand’s 6. The series promises a thrilling contest as both teams finalise their preparations for the upcoming mega event.

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