Virat Kohli Praises Glenn Maxwell’s Heroics in New Autobiography
"When it was over, I texted him that he is a freak and a madman. In my view, he is the only player in the world capable of doing what he did.”
Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli has shared heartfelt praise for Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, calling him a “freak and a madman” in the foreword to Maxwell's new autobiography, The Showman. Kohli’s admiration for Maxwell stems from his remarkable double century against Afghanistan in the 2023 ODI World Cup, which proved pivotal for Australia in one of the tournament's most thrilling chases.
During the game at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, Australia was struggling at 91 for 7 while chasing a target of 292. Afghanistan appeared set for a victory, but Maxwell’s stunning unbeaten 201 rescued the Australian side. Battling cramps, Maxwell repeatedly fell to the ground, often without a helmet, but managed to deliver an unforgettable performance.
Kohli described watching Maxwell’s innings as “compelling drama,” remarking on the unique mix of skill and resilience that Maxwell displayed. "The whole cricket world was glued to those final stages as he kept bombing sixes on one leg," Kohli wrote. "When it was over, I texted him that he is a freak and a madman. In my view, he is the only player in the world capable of doing what he did.”
Reflecting on the unforgettable moment, Kohli shared that as Maxwell neared his century, he believed Australia could turn the game around. However, the final double century exceeded even Kohli's expectations. He added a humorous anecdote from the World Cup final, where Maxwell jokingly tossed a ball at Kohli, bringing a moment of light-heartedness and respect between the two fierce competitors.
This admiration from Kohli reflects the camaraderie and mutual respect between players from opposing teams, even in the heat of competition.
