Glenn Maxwell’s injury from a freak accident leaves Australia without a key player for crucial T20Is against New Zealand

Glenn Maxwell has suffered an injury ahead of the first T20I between Australia and New Zealand at Mount Maunganui. His forearm was fractured after a shot from Mitchell Owen’s bat struck his bowling hand during a practice session, ruling him out of three T20Is against the Kiwis.

The 36-year-old, who is a key player in Australia’s T20 team, is likely to miss the five-match T20I series against India. The eight matches against New Zealand and the Men in Blue are important for Australia’s preparations ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Maxwell was bowling in the nets when he suffered a freak injury. He couldn’t avoid getting hit, resulting in a fracture. He has returned to Australia and will meet a specialist in the coming days.

Josh Philippe has replaced Maxwell for the three games against the Black Caps. Philippe is expected to play aggressively and is also a backup wicket-keeper.

Australia were hoping to win their second T20 World Cup but injuries to key players have put them in a fix. Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Pat Cummins and Nathan Ellis are also injured.

Mitchell Marsh, who is the captain of Australia”s T20 team, is not fit to bowl.