PBKS Suffer Blow as Glenn Maxwell Ruled Out of IPL 2025 Due to Finger Injury

Punjab Kings have been dealt a major blow as Australian sensation Glenn Maxwell is set to miss the rest of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season following a fractured finger.

The injury was sustained during a practice session prior to Punjab's recent encounter with Kolkata Knight Riders, a game which ultimately ended up being washed out. Maxwell played despite the injury but could only muster 7 runs, continuing a tough run of form this season.

The injury to his finger has since deteriorated further, and the following medical scans revealed a fracture. "Unfortunately, Maxi's broken his finger. I think he's probably out for the tournament," teammate and fellow Australian Marcus Stoinis disclosed in an interview with Jiostar.

In their recent match, which Punjab won against Chennai Super Kings by four wickets, Maxwell was not present and substituted by youngster all-rounder Suryansh Shedge.

Speaking after the match, Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting acknowledged that the team is actively pursuing a replacement, although options are limited. “We will be signing some replacements at some stage. We’ve got until our 12th game,” Ponting said.

He also suggested that already existing players within the team might take Maxwell's place based on match conditions. "It is a matter of conditions. In Dharamsala, where the ball could swing and bounce more, Bartlett could re-enter the fray," he stated, mentioning Australian seamer Xavier Bartlett.

Ponting mentioned that other names under consideration include Azmatullah Omarzai and Aaron Hardie. Given the scarcity of quality overseas players due to scheduling conflicts with other leagues, Punjab is also eyeing domestic prospects. “We’ve had a couple of young players train with us, and they’ll travel with us to Dharamsala. They could even end up with a Punjab contract soon,” he added.

Punjab Kings must seal any player amendments prior to their 12th game of the season under league rules.