Glenn Maxwell is preparing to add more strings to his bow as Australia gear up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with the all-rounder working on bowling inside the Powerplay in conditions expected in India and Sri Lanka.

Speaking in Cairns before the third T20I against South Africa, Maxwell said the harder new ball could offer spinners early assistance on dry sub-continental pitches.

“You might be able to get a little bit more out of it early on. That hard seam can grip,” he said. “It might be something we think about heading forward.”

Maxwell has history in the role — most memorably in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, when he removed Rohit Sharma in the Powerplay to spark Australia’s sixth title.

In the current series against South Africa, he’s already bowled two Powerplay overs, snaring key wickets including Proteas skipper Aiden Markram.

“I’m just as surprised as anyone when I get a wicket,” he joked. “But I’m there to do a job and execute.”

The Victorian is also embracing his “floating” spot in the batting order, shifting from No.7 in the first T20I to No.5 in the second, after opening in four of five matches against the West Indies earlier this year.

“I’m filling holes at the moment,” he said. “Whether it’s countering a bowler like Akeal Hosein up top or managing the back end, I’m trying to be as adaptable as possible.”