Glenn Maxwell's injury blow to Punjab Kings: Star all-rounder likely to miss IPL remainder
Punjab Kings (PBKS) all-rounder Glenn Maxwell will likely sit out the rest of the Indian Premier League (IPL) after fracturing his finger. Maxwell hurt his finger prior to PBKS' last game against Kolkata Knight Riders, when he was bowled out for 7. He did not think the injury was serious at first but subsequent scans confirmed the seriousness of the injury.
PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting assured that the team is looking for a good replacement for Maxwell. Ponting said that the team has up to their 12th game to look for a good player. The coach pointed to some of the possibilities in the team such as Azmatullah Omarzai, Aaron Hardie, and Xavier Bartlett.
Ponting's insights
Ponting discussed that the team is thinking in terms of conditions-based selections for future games. He said players such as Hardie could find a spot under certain conditions, for example, in Dharamsala where the ball might swing and bounce more. Ponting also made a point to stress the team's emphasis on finding young Indian talent to plug any gaps that might be coming up in the team.
Indian talent on radar
Ponting made known that PBKS is on the lookout for Indian players to possibly sign ahead of their 12th game. The team is looking at young Indian players who can slot into their team and may even receive a Punjab contract in the future. Ponting indicated that the team would make any possible signings ahead of their 12th game.
Impact on PBKS
Maxwell's unavailability is likely to greatly affect PBKS' fortunes in the IPL. As an integral all-rounder, Maxwell's efforts with both bat and ball have been pivotal in the team's success. Whoever replaces him will have to perform exceptionally well to enable PBKS to fulfill their ambitions in the tournament.
News of Maxwell is a major setback for PBKS
The injury news of Maxwell is a major setback for PBKS. The team's capability to get a proper replacement will be important in deciding their success in the rest of the games. With Ponting's advice, PBKS will try to adjust to the situation and make the best possible choices to bolster their team.
