“It Was When…,”: Glenn Maxwell Reveals The Story Behind Virat Kohli Blocking Him On Instagram

In the fast-paced world of the Indian Premier League (IPL), where rivalries are as fierce as the competition, few friendships shine as brightly as that of Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell. Their journey from early tension and misunderstanding to a robust camaraderie reflects not only their personal growth but also the dynamics of a team striving for success. This story is intricately detailed in Maxwell’s book, The Showman, where he opens up about the complexities of their relationship, especially their early clashes during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2017.

The Incident that Sparked Tension

The roots of Kohli and Maxwell’s friendship are deeply intertwined with a particular incident that took place during the 2017 Australia tour of India. This was a pivotal series not just for cricket but also for the two players. During the third Test in Ranchi, Kohli suffered a shoulder injury while fielding, forcing him to leave the field temporarily. In a moment that would later haunt him, Maxwell, known for his boisterous demeanor, mimicked Kohli’s shoulder discomfort on the field.

Kohli perceived this act as disrespectful, and in a sport that values mutual respect, it was an uncharacteristic breach of camaraderie. Maxwell, reflecting on this incident years later, shared his perspective during an interview: “I remember joking about the injury. It was harmless to me at the time, but it really hit a nerve with Virat.” This moment marked a significant turning point in their relationship, setting the stage for a rocky path ahead.

Social Media Fallout: Blocking on Instagram

The repercussions of this incident extended beyond the cricket field and into the realm of social media. Kohli’s frustration with Maxwell led him to block the Australian cricketer on Instagram, an action that underscored the personal nature of their fallout. In a candid conversation during an RCB training camp, Maxwell confronted Kohli about being blocked. “Have you blocked me on Instagram?” he asked, to which Kohli responded, “Yeah, probably. It was when you mocked me during that Test match. I think I got the sh*** and decided to block you.”

This exchange, though steeped in initial awkwardness, became a humorous anecdote for both players. Maxwell laughed and acknowledged, “I was like, ‘Yeah, that’s fair enough.’” This honesty marked the beginning of a new chapter in their relationship, one that would evolve over the years into a solid friendship and fierce partnership on the field.

A Fresh Start: Joining Royal Challengers Bengaluru

In 2021, Glenn Maxwell joined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), marking a significant shift in both his career and his relationship with Kohli. The move came after a turbulent stint with the Punjab Kings, where Maxwell struggled to find his footing. RCB’s investment in him, worth ₹14.25 crore, demonstrated their faith in his abilities, but it was Kohli’s personal support that truly helped Maxwell feel at home.

As Maxwell reflected on this transition, he noted the importance of Kohli’s welcome message, stating, “When I knew I was going to RCB, Virat was the first guy to message me and welcome me to the team. It felt genuine and erased any lingering awkwardness.” This warmth and camaraderie played a crucial role in rejuvenating Maxwell’s career, allowing him to play with freedom and confidence. With Kohli and AB de Villiers in the lineup, the pressure was on, but the support Maxwell received transformed his game.

The Impact of Kohli’s Support

Kohli’s faith in Maxwell proved to be a game-changer. With Kohli as his captain, Maxwell flourished, scoring over 500 runs in the 2021 IPL season, a remarkable turnaround from his previous struggles. Maxwell’s performance helped RCB secure a place in the playoffs, showcasing how essential a positive team environment can be for individual players.

In his book, Maxwell stated, “Virat’s faith in me at RCB was a defining factor in my performance. I owed it to him to show what I could bring to the table.” This newfound trust not only solidified their partnership on the field but also laid the foundation for a lasting friendship off it. Kohli’s encouragement allowed Maxwell to embrace his natural playing style, contributing significantly to RCB’s success during that season.

The Challenges Ahead: Uncertain Future for Maxwell

Despite their flourishing partnership, the trajectory of Maxwell’s career has faced uncertainties in recent seasons. In 2024, his performance declined sharply, as evidenced by a meager tally of just 52 runs in 10 matches, averaging 5.78. This stark contrast to his previous form has raised questions about his future with RCB.

As the franchise prepares for potential changes ahead of the IPL 2025 auction, speculation grows about whether Maxwell will be retained. RCB has expressed a focus on rejuvenating its squad and might consider releasing players who are not performing up to expectations. The decisions made in the upcoming weeks could significantly impact Maxwell’s career trajectory and his relationship with Kohli, who has become a crucial ally in his cricketing journey.

Leaving a Legacy: The Bond Between Kohli and Maxwell

Regardless of what the future holds for Glenn Maxwell in the IPL, the bond he has forged with Virat Kohli remains a highlight of his career. Their journey from rivalry to friendship encapsulates the unpredictable nature of sports relationships, where personal and professional lines often blur. Maxwell’s experiences underline the importance of support, understanding, and communication in fostering successful team dynamics.

As RCB continues its quest for an elusive IPL title, the friendship between Kohli and Maxwell stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in achieving success. Their relationship has not only influenced their performance on the field but has also left an indelible mark on the culture of RCB, creating a space where players can thrive together.

The story of Virat Kohli and Glenn Maxwell serves as a reminder that even the fiercest of competitors can find common ground and support one another. As both players look to the future, their friendship will undoubtedly remain a vital part of their cricketing narratives, continuing to inspire fans and teammates alike in the ever-evolving world of cricket.

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