Stars set to keep rivals in the dark

GLENN Maxwell’s ideal spot in the batting order continues to be a divisive topic, with Melbourne Stars coach David Hussey keen to keep BBL rivals guessing after his side’s shock loss to the Sydney Sixers at the SCG on Monday night.

Riding an eight-match winning streak, the Stars were set a target of 147 from 14 overs in the rain-affected clash.

Marcus Stoinis gave the title favourites hope, slapping 62 off 37 balls, but the escalating required run rate ultimately proved too big an ask.

Mark Waugh was among many commentators to question why Maxwell batted at No.4 below Nic Maddinson, suggesting it reflected the experimental approach of a side that had secured top spot.

The skipper came in when the victory equation was 62 runs off 26 balls, after it was 112 runs from 10.5 overs when Maddinson started his innings.

“Maxi is probably the best T20 player in the world at the minute, isn’t he.

“Unfortunately he probably didn’t get the right number of balls to execute the chase ... unfortunately I probably got it wrong,” Hussey said.

“It’s not the end of the world for Glenn to have a night off with the bat, but you like to have your best players facing the most balls in every game.”

Unable to conjure any miracles in the 21-run loss Maxwell scored 12 from 13 balls.

Hussey wouldn’t say if Maxwell would be elevated to first drop in the remaining games. The Stars travel to Adelaide tonight to take on the Strikers.

“Maddo’s probably been our No.3 for the last couple of games and we desperately need him to get into some form come finals ... if he does get another opportunity ... I’m sure he will take it with both hands,” he said.