Maxy casts a bowling spell

AUSTRALIAN Glenn Maxwell has taken 5-40 in a career-best bowling performance to help Lancashire beat Middlesex in the English County Championship Division Two.

With the World Cup in the UK looming, Maxwell’s form with the ball was a timely reminder of his value as an all-rounder as Australia defend their limited-overs crown before they face England in the Ashes.

Maxwell’s maiden five-wicket haul, in a bewitching 16.5-over spell, helped his side to a seven-wicket win.