GLENN Maxwell is aiming for a bigger role with the ball in the T20 World Cup next year, especially in the PowerPlay. Not averse to the challenge in recent years, Maxwell bowled two overs each with the new ball in the last two T20Is against South Africa.

“I think in the subcontinent you might be able to get a little bit more out of it as a spinner early on,” Maxwell told reporters in Cairns on Thursday ahead of the final T20I. “Especially that new ball, the hard seam, being able to grip on those dry surfaces. So it might be something we think about heading forward.”

In T20Is, 17 out of his 49 wickets have come in the PowerPlay and in the IPL he has been even more effective. Since the 2022 edition, Maxwell has bowled at a commendable economy rate of 7.30 in the first six overs and has also picked up 8 key wickets in the process. He bagged the big wicket of Aiden Markram too now in the recently-concluded second T20I and followed it up with some wild celebrations.

“I’m just as surprised as anyone when I get a wicket,” Maxwell said on his celebration. “I love getting wickets. It’s very surprising anytime I get anyone out. I’m there to do a job in the PowerPlay and I’m trying to execute that as well as I can.”

In terms of his role with the bat, the 36-year-old is more than willing to be flexible and contribute as per the team’s needs. In the absence of Travis Head, Maxwell opened the batting in West Indies to take on Akeal Hosein in the PowerPlay but has now been relegated to a finisher’s role especially with the in-form Tim David earning a promotion. He batted at No.7 in the first game and No.5 in the second.

“I’ve been a bit of the shuffler around the order, up and down,” Maxwell said. “I’m filling holes at the moment. Even during the West Indies series, trying to combat Akeal Hosein (by) going up the top, this series going a little bit lower, trying to manage that back end. (I’m) trying to play whatever role is needed for me in this side and just try and be as adaptable as possible.”