Why Releasing Glenn Maxwell Could Be RCB’s Biggest IPL Mistake Yet?

Jatin

Glenn Maxwell was released by RCB ahead of IPL 2025 auction [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/x.com]Glenn Maxwell was released by RCB ahead of IPL 2025 auction [Source: @mufaddal_vohra/x.com]

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Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and heartbreaks are like best buddies; they just can’t seem to stay away from each other. Despite being one of the most hyped teams in IPL history, the coveted trophy keeps slipping through their fingers.

Over the years, RCB has been home to some of cricket’s biggest names. Yet, the silverware cabinet remains as empty as ever. To add to the drama, they have got this knack for letting go of players who suddenly turn into superstars elsewhere. It’s enough to make their fans go, "Why always us?"

And now, Glenn Maxwell seems to be the latest addition to RCB’s long list of "what ifs." After a forgettable IPL 2024, Maxwell was shown the door ahead of the IPL 2025 auction.

But fast forward to the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL), and the Aussie all-rounder is on fire for the Melbourne Stars, making RCB’s decision look like one they might seriously regret.

Maxwell’s IPL Struggles With RCB

Let’s be real, IPL 2024 was a season Maxwell would rather forget. In 10 games, he managed just 52 runs at an average of 5.78. To top it off, his strike rate barely scratched 120.93. For someone of Maxwell’s calibre, it was a shocker of a season.

RCB, clearly unimpressed, decided to cut ties. Not only did they release him, but they didn’t even bother using the Right to Match (RTM) card to bring him back. And while at the time it seemed like a no-brainer, the Big Show’s recent form in the BBL might just have them second-guessing their call.

Punjab Kings swooped in, picking Maxwell up for ₹4.20 crore. While fans were divided over this decision, few could have predicted what would happen next.

Maxwell Finds His Mojo In BBL

In the ongoing BBL 2024-25, and Maxwell has looked like his usual self. In just eight matches, he has hammered 297 runs at a sensational average of over 50 and a blistering strike rate of around 185. What’s more, his last three knocks read 58*, 90, and 76*—sheer carnage.

The Big Show is back, and he’s reminding the cricketing world why he’s one of the most dangerous T20 players. Whether it’s clearing the ropes with ease or pacing an innings beautifully, Maxwell has been doing it all.




Why RCB Might Be Kicking Themselves?

RCB’s middle-order woes have been a consistent thorn in their side. Maxwell, in this form, could have been the answer to their prayers. Imagine having a batter who can not only anchor an innings but also accelerate at will. His brilliance at countering spin in the middle overs is something RCB could have desperately used.

And let’s not forget his bowling. Maxwell’s off-spin could have provided important breakthroughs while also giving the team flexibility in their playing XI. Letting him go now feels like a decision that could haunt RCB, especially if he carries this form into IPL 2025.

A Familiar Tale For RCB

This isn’t the first time RCB has let a player go, only to watch them flourish elsewhere. KL Rahul, Shane Watson, Moeen Ali, and Shivam Dube are just a few names who left Bangalore and made headlines for other franchises. Maxwell’s resurgence seems to be following that well-trodden path.

Can Maxwell Be the Missing Piece for Punjab Kings?

For Punjab Kings, Maxwell’s resurgence couldn’t be more perfectly timed. Much like RCB, Punjab has been chasing their maiden IPL trophy for what feels like forever. If Maxwell brings his BBL fireworks into IPL 2025, he might just be the X-factor Punjab needs to finally win that title. And if that happens, RCB fans might be left wondering yet again about what could have been.

RCB’s Loss Is Punjab’s Gain

RCB’s history of releasing players who then shine elsewhere is becoming something of a running joke in IPL circles. With Maxwell tearing it up left right and centre in the BBL and looking like he’s back to his destructive best, this decision could very well come back to haunt RCB.

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings must be grinning ear to ear. If he continues with this form, Punjab might finally break their trophy curse whereas RCB will probably be sitting on the sidelines, scratching their heads and wondering how they let another match-winner slip through their fingers. That elusive IPL trophy remains out of reach, and decisions like these might be the reason it keeps dodging them.