The story behind RCB bidding for Glenn Maxwell at IPL 2021 Auction

When Glenn Maxwell's name was called at the 2021 IPL auction, a bidding got underway to acquire one of the most fierce all-rounders in the game. Here on RCB Bold Diaries, we unfold behind the scenes (BTS) discussions with respect to what went on in the background before the auction.

Mike Hesson, Director of Cricket Operations, had perfectly analysed the situation and had his instincts right in believing that if any team could push RCB to a limit when signing Maxi, that would be CSK. Like Hesson had predicted earlier, it was the Chennai-based team that went toe-to-toe with their Bengaluru counterparts to secure the 'Big Show.'

“Personally, I see the only threat for Maxwell is CSK. In terms of price,” Mike Hesson had said before the auction.

What does Maxwell bring to the table?

“The reason why we like him (Glenn Maxwell) is because overs 7-15 is where he’s the most dangerous. So even when he’s if we look at anything that he’s done since 2014 through the middle of this average 28, strike rate 161.5, that would do us beautifully and they can be a bowling option,” he said.

A clear cut strategy was set by Hesson and Co. They focused on getting a player who could play the flamboyant innings with the bat in the top 6 and also give a few handy overs with the ball.

“We need somebody in that top 6, whoever it is that can bowl 3-4 overs like he’s a very good bowler, but Maxi can bowl two. I mean those numbers are exceptional,” Hesson added.

In the end, Glenn Maxwell was sold to the Royal Challengers Bangalore for a massive sum of INR 14.25 Crores.