Cheteshwar Pujara Slams Glenn Maxwell for Being ‘Casual’, Urges Aussie Star to Step Up in IPL 2025

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April 18, 2025 0 89

Pujara demands accountability from Glenn Maxwell

Cheteshwar Pujara criticised Glenn Maxwell for his underwhelming IPL 2025 performance, urging him to shake off a ‘casual’ attitude and deliver for Punjab Kings.

India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has called out Australian allrounder Glenn Maxwell for his ongoing struggles in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, stating that the veteran has been “a little casual” and must show urgency and hunger to contribute meaningfully for Punjab Kings.

Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Pujara didn’t mince words. “He hasn’t changed the way he has approached the IPL. There have been times when he’s been a little casual. He’s the same as he was, maybe eight to ten years ago. I’m a little critical, but there are times when, as a player, you need to wake up,” he said.

Maxwell was signed by Punjab Kings for Rs 4.2 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, but his performances have fallen well short of expectations. In five matches, the Australian has scored only 41 runs at a poor average of 8.2. With the ball, he has claimed four wickets in six games, maintaining a decent economy rate of 8.46.

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Pujara stressed that Punjab is relying on Maxwell to deliver match-winning performances. “You need to realise you’re getting an opportunity to play and be part of a franchise where things are at stake. And there are times a player can get casual, they’re not worried about what’s happening,” he added.

Maxwell’s form had already dipped during IPL 2024, where he managed just 52 runs from nine innings at an average of 5.77. Though he picked up six wickets with the ball, his overall impact remained limited.

Meanwhile, Punjab’s bowling spearhead Yuzvendra Chahal is expected to play a crucial role in their upcoming fixture, with spinners proving highly effective in Bengaluru. Chahal, along with Maxwell—who spent years at Royal Challengers Bengaluru—will have knowledge of the conditions, but the spotlight remains firmly on Maxwell to prove his worth.