Harbhajan Singh predicts a tough start for Glenn Maxwell in IPL 2024 opener at Chennai

Harbhajan Singh, ex-Indian cricketer, suggests that Glenn Maxwell, a key batsman for the Royal Challengers Bangalore, will face challenges against Ravindra Jadeja of the Chennai Super Kings in their IPL 2024 opener. He delves into the historical rivalry between the two teams and highlights Maxwell’s ongoing difficulty against Jadeja, indicating that this trend is likely to persist in the forthcoming season.

During an interview with Star Sports, Harbhajan elaborated on how Jadeja could emerge victorious once more when the two teams clash in the highly anticipated opening match on March 22 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

Harbhajan’s Insights: Maxwell-Jadeja Battle Preview

“It’s a significant challenge for anyone to step out and immediately start hitting sixes,” he remarked. “You need to allocate some time to build your innings with singles and doubles. If you neglect this initial phase of playing at least 10 balls before attempting boundaries, you’re exposing yourself to risk. There’s always the chance of getting out prematurely. In this specific encounter, I believe Jadeja will have the upper hand over Maxwell on this pitch, particularly since it offers some assistance to Jadeja,” explained Harbhajan.

Despite Maxwell’s recent outstanding performances in the IPL, Jadeja’s spin expertise has consistently posed a challenge for him. Out of the 11 encounters between them in the league, Jadeja has dismissed Maxwell 6 times, restricting him to just 70 runs off 51 deliveries.

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Acknowledging Maxwell’s potential threat for RCB, particularly when he’s in his explosive form, Harbhajan emphasized Maxwell’s ability to turn the game around single-handedly. Maxwell’s remarkable performance in IPL 2023, where he scored 400 runs with some dazzling displays, further highlights his danger at the crease.

“On his day, Maxwell is unstoppable. However, on this pitch, it’ll be tough for anyone to start hitting sixes right from the get-go. But if anyone can do it, it’s Maxwell. Let’s see who comes out on top in this rivalry,” remarked Harbhajan.

Maxwell enters the IPL 2024 season with confidence following his standout performance in the World Cup in India, including a double hundred, and a century against India in a T20I series post the World Cup.