Australia has suffered a major blow as star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has been ruled out of the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand. According to cricket reports, the 36-year-old fractured his right wrist during net practice. Following the injury, Maxwell has been sent back home, where he will consult specialist doctors in the coming days.
Team sources indicated that while he is expected to recover soon, his participation in the home series against India later in October remains doubtful. In response, Cricket Australia (CA) has drafted wicketkeeper-batter Josh Philippe into the squad as cover for Alex Carey in case of injury. Notably, Philippe had been considered earlier when Josh Inglis was unavailable, but Carey had been given preference at the time.
The Australian side is already missing several key players. Josh Inglis is sidelined with a calf injury, Pat Cummins is out with a back issue, Cameron Green is resting due to Shield cricket commitments, and Nathan Ellis is unavailable owing to the birth of his child. With Maxwell now ruled out, concerns over team balance have intensified.
This series, along with the upcoming fixtures against India, holds great importance for Australia’s preparations ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. The first match of the three-match T20 series between New Zealand and Australia is scheduled for October 1.
