Maxwell out for extended period after breaking leg in 'freak accident'

Glenn Maxwell has been ruled out of cricket for an extended period after suffering a broken leg in "a freak accident" at a birthday party in Melbourne on Saturday.

Maxwell fractured his fibula and underwent surgery on Saturday. It is understood it happened as he slipped while running in a backyard with the person celebrating the birthday, and Maxwell's leg became trapped, with neither person intoxicated.

In the immediate future Maxwell is ruled out of the one-day series against England which starts on Thursday but he may also miss the entire BBL with Melbourne Stars, depending on the recovery timeline which will be known in the coming weeks. It would appear touch and go whether he will have recovered in time to be considered for the Test tour of India which starts in February 2023.

The injury means Maxwell won't have the chance to make a rare Sheffield Shield appearance in early December or feature for Australia A against South Africa.

"Glenn is in good spirits," national selector George Bailey said. "It was an unfortunate accident and we feel for Glenn in the circumstances given he was in great touch in his last few games. Glenn is a critical part of our white-ball structure and we will continue to support him through his recovery and rehabilitation."

Stars general manager Blair Crouch said: "Glenn is obviously a huge part of the Melbourne Stars and we wish him well in his recovery. He will continue to be a key part of the club during the start of the season as he works his way back to full fitness and we look forward to seeing him soon."

Sean Abbott will replace Maxwell in the squad to face England.

Earlier this year England's Jonny Bairstow suffered a badly broken ankle when he slipped playing golf and was ruled out for the remainder of the year. Australia wicketkeeper Josh Inglis missed the T20 World Cup after badly cutting his hand playing golf on the eve of the tournament.