Glenn Maxwell Backed By Peter Siddle to Explode in BBL Finals After Lean Run

Peter Siddle had backed Glenn Maxwell to rediscover his touch and deliver in the Big Bash League finals despite a difficult season with the bat.

Former Australia Test pacer Peter Siddle has thrown his support behind Glenn Maxwell to break out of his poor form and shine during the BBL finals, as the Melbourne Stars chase their maiden title against the odds.

The Stars missed a golden chance to finish on top of the table and secure two home finals after suffering a six-wicket defeat against Perth Scorchers on Saturday night. Batting first, the Stars were bowled out for 130 in 18.2 overs before the Scorchers chased down the target with 19 balls to spare in front of 48,608 fans at Optus Stadium.

With the win, the Scorchers finished top of the table for a competition-record sixth time. The Stars, meanwhile, will end either third or fourth, depending on the result of Sunday’s clash between the Sydney Sixers and Brisbane Heat at the Gabba.

Melbourne Stars remain the only team in the Big Bash League yet to lift the trophy. To finally claim the title, they will need to win three consecutive finals, with at least two likely to be played away from home.

Against the Scorchers, Maxwell was pushed down to No. 7 in the batting order. The 37-year-old walked in at 100 for 5 in the 14th over but scored just three runs off eight balls before lofting a catch to the boundary.

Siddle Backs Maxwell

Despite the lean run, Siddle, who at 41 remains a key part of the Stars’ pace attack, said Maxwell has proven time and again that he can deliver when it matters most.

“He’s in that position at the moment. You’ve just got to let him go, just to make sure he’s comfortable and happy. He’s starred at World Cups in knockout games and starred in knockout tournaments. He’ll know what to do, so I think we’ll definitely see the best of him next week.”

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Maxwell is also known for his sharp fielding, but he endured a rare off moment when he dropped a catch late in the Scorchers’ innings.

Siddle, however, praised Maxwell’s influence within the group, highlighting his leadership and impact off the field.

“He would have loved to have done more, but he’s still been great,” he said. “The way he talks to the boys and especially the young batsmen, he’s helped them, and they probably had better seasons than we expected anyway.

“So as much as he mightn’t have starred with the bat, his words and his leadership with those younger batsmen has he played a great role.”

As the Stars head into the finals under pressure, they will be hoping their senior match-winner finds his rhythm at the perfect time.