"I wouldn't say my RCB journey's over" - Glenn Maxwell hopes to reunite with the franchise through the IPL 2025 mega-auction
Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell reflected on the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) decision to release him ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega-auction. The three-time finalists named Virat Kohli, Yash Dayal, and Rajat Patidar as their retentions, releasing the remainder of their squad, including their overseas players.
Maxwell was one of the three retentions RCB had made following the end of the previous cycle. While much of the three-year cycle from 2021 worked well for Maxwell in the RCB setup, he endured a horrid 2024 campaign. Scoring only 52 runs from nine innings at an average of 5.77, coupled with his age, did not make the 36-year-old a lucrative option worthy of retention.
The Australian is also struggling to make an impact in national colors after a mediocre tour of England recently. However, his extensive experience, impact when in form, and bowling ability are perks that make his case ahead of the auction.
"Completely understand what they the direction they're heading in. They went, with three unions to build that core. And, yeah, hopefully their overseas can complement, those locals. Yeah, I wouldn't say my RCB journey's over, but, yeah, I'd certainly love to get back there. It was a great franchise to play for and really enjoyed my time there," Maxwell said on ESPNcricinfo's Around the Wicket.
RCB head into the auction with the second-highest purse behind the Punjab Kings (PBKS). Having retained only three players, the franchise also have the luxury of RTM cards, which could be availed if they wish to rope in one of their former players.
"It was actually a really beautiful exit meeting" - Glenn Maxwell on his departure from RCB
Glenn Maxwell credited RCB management for handling his departure well and outlining justified reasons behind the team's decision against retaining him ahead of the auction.
“I got a phone call from Mo Bobat and Andy Flower. I sat there on a zoom call, and they sort of explained to me the decision not to be retained. And, it was actually a really beautiful exit meeting, if that if that could be possible. We ended up talking about the game for about half an hour and talking about their strategy and what they were looking to get to do, going forward. So, I was really happy with that,” Maxwell said in the same interaction.
The IPL 2025 mega-auction will reportedly be held on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah. Maxwell has the opportunity to impress the franchises through the ongoing home series against Pakistan, where he unfortunately began with a golden duck.