Glenn Maxwell’s international career could be nearing its final chapter, with former Australia captain Ricky Ponting suggesting the veteran all-rounder may not feature in the next T20 World Cup cycle.

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Australia’s 2026 T20 World Cup campaign ended in disappointment after a group-stage exit denied them a place in the Super 8s. The early elimination has intensified scrutiny on the team’s senior core, and Ponting believes Maxwell might not be part of the rebuild.

Speaking to The ICC Review, Ponting offered a frank assessment. “Glenn Maxwell, I don’t think will be there. I think it looks to me like his career is coming towards an end,” he said.

Australia still have one fixture remaining, a February 20 clash against Oman in Kandy — and it could carry added emotional weight if it proves to be Maxwell’s final World Cup appearance, or even his last outing in international colours.

While casting doubt over Maxwell’s future, Ponting backed several other senior players to remain central to Australia’s plans leading into the 2028 edition.

“I think Mitchell Marsh will probably hang on long enough for 2028, and I think Travis Head will definitely be around, and Josh Inglis will be around,” Ponting added.

Australia’s 2026 campaign never quite found momentum, with inconsistency and balance issues undermining their push for the knockouts. The abrupt exit has sharpened focus on transition and the need to reshape the T20 setup for the next cycle.

What went wrong for Glenn Maxwell?

For over a decade, Maxwell has been one of Australia’s most dynamic white-ball match-winners, playing key roles in ODI World Cup triumphs in 2015 and 2023 and in the 2021 T20 World Cup success. Known for his audacity and game-changing ability, he often turned matches on their head in a matter of overs.

But as he approaches 37, his returns have tapered. He has not registered a T20 half-century since August last year and has managed just 140 runs in his last 12 innings, averaging 15.55 at a strike rate of 113.82, numbers well below his usual standards.

If this tournament does mark the end of his international journey, Maxwell will leave behind a legacy defined by fearless strokeplay, innovation and unforgettable match-winning knocks. For Australia, however, the focus now shifts firmly to renewal as the next T20 cycle begins to take shape.