CWC 2019: Maxwell's absence from the nets doesn't mean he is dropped for the semi, says Finch 

Maxwell hasn't been in good form during this World Cup.

Glenn Maxwell | Getty

Glenn Maxwell may have been absent from the nets on the eve of the World Cup semi-final against England on Thursday (July 11) but Australia skipper Aaron Finch clarified the explosive batsman hasn't at all been ruled out of the marquee clash. 

Maxwell, struggling for form, has managed just 155 runs in nine innings this World Cup. And there are options up Australia's sleeves with the presence of Peter Handscomb and Matthew Wade in the squad.

"It's a purely optional training session. You're reading a bit too much into it. Maxi is someone who 50 percent of the time comes down to optional sessions. Most of the bowlers aren't here, Davey (Warner) isn't here. We'll name our side tomorrow at the toss, as usual," Finch told reporters. 

"There's runs around the corner. He'd like to have scored more but he's hitting the ball nicely. We know how destructive he can be when he's in." 

"His contributions in the field are up there with most runs saved and he got a great run out at Taunton against Pakistan. And the overs he's bowled have been really, really key overs for us too. What he brings to the game is a still very exciting package."

Australia, bidding for a sixth World Cup title, has once again performed better than the rest under pressure at the quadrennial event. 

"World Cups are very special and they bring out the best in players. That's why Australia have a very rich history in World Cups."

"Winning four of the last five (World Cups) is a great achievement. We're full of confidence going into this game, but England have been front runners in one-day cricket for the last four years."

"It will come down to whoever holds their nerve and whoever holds their half-chances," Finch signed off. 

(Inputs from AFP)

 
 

By Kashish Chadha - 11 Jul, 2019

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