Glenn Maxwell took centre stage as Australia enjoyed a record-breaking day against the Netherlands.
The man dubbed ‘The Big Show’ lived up to his billing by smashing a 40-ball century – the fastest in World Cup history – as Australia maintained their improvement following a slow start in India.
David Warner added 104 – his second ton in succession – as Pat Cummins’ men made 399 for eight from their 50 overs. Having taken a pasting in the field, the Netherlands suffered a similar fate with the bat as Adam Zampa’s four for eight helped bundle them out for just 90.
The 309-run margin of victory was the biggest at a World Cup and the second largest in ODI history.
Warner’s brilliant knock and useful contributions from Steve Smith (71) and Marnus Labuschagne (62) paved the way for Maxwell’s late onslaught. The all-rounder didn’t walk to the crease until the 40th over but by the time he left, with three balls of the innings remaining, he’d secured a place in the record books.
“It wasn’t something I set out to do,” he said, after hitting nine fours and eight sixes. “It was just the situation of the game and it was nice to get into some rhythm.”
Maxwell admitted the innings had given him some confidence after an indifferent spell.
“It’s a huge confidence booster knowing I’ve got that in my locker,” he added. “Doubts can creep in when you’re not scoring consistently but it was good to get this.”
Fastest Cricket World Cup ton and a brilliant run out 💫
Glenn Maxwell is the @ARAMCO #POTM for a sensational day in #CWC23 👏#AUSVNED PIC.TWITTER.COM/UDF4701OQJ
— ICC Cricket World Cup (@cricketworldcup) OCTOBER 25, 2023
Maxwell’s joy was in stark contrast to Netherlands bowler Bas de Leede, who conceded 115 runs in his 10 overs, the most in a men’s ODI.
The Netherlands’ reply never really got going with Vikramjit Singh top-scoring with just 25.
Mitch Marsh claimed two for 19 but the star was again spinner Zampa, who polished off the tail in spectacular fashion and is now the leading wicket-taker in the World Cup with 13.
“It was just about the complete game,” said Cummins, “I couldn’t be happier.
“We are starting to play to our potential and play in the style we talk about.”
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