Former Australia pacer and Melbourne Stars fast bowler Peter Siddle has thrown his weight behind teammate and star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell to deliver when it matters most, with the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26 playoffs fast approaching. The Stars wrapped up the league stage with six wins from 10 matches to book their spot in the knockouts.
Siddle stressed that Maxwell’s vast experience and proven temperament in high-pressure matches make him the ideal player to step up during crunch moments. Confident that the all-rounder will rise to the occasion in the upcoming fixture, Siddle urged the team to back Maxwell’s instincts.
“He’s in that position right now. You’ve just got to let him go and make sure he’s comfortable and happy,” Siddle was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. “He’s starred in World Cups and knockout tournaments. He knows what to do, and I think we’ll definitely see the best of him next week.”
The 41-year-old also praised Maxwell’s influence off the field, highlighting his leadership role within a relatively young Stars lineup. According to Siddle, Maxwell’s guidance and encouragement have played a key role in boosting the confidence of the younger batters, helping them perform beyond expectations this season.
“He would’ve loved to contribute more runs, but he’s still been outstanding,” Siddle said. “The way he talks to the boys, especially the young batters, has helped them immensely. They’ve probably had better seasons than we expected. Even if he hasn’t starred with the bat, his words and leadership have made a huge difference.”
Siddle himself has been impressive with the ball, claiming 15 wickets this season for the Melbourne-based franchise.
Despite being one of the most consistent teams in the tournament’s history, the Melbourne Stars remain the only side yet to lift the BBL trophy. They have finished runners-up three times, in the 2015–16, 2018–19 and 2019–20 seasons, while teams such as the Hobart Hurricanes, Melbourne Renegades, Adelaide Strikers and Sydney Thunder have all won the title at least once.
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