India have ticked a lot of boxes, says Suryakumar ahead of T20WC Super Eights

The air crackled. Electric anticipation vibrated through the MCG, a feeling as thick as the Melbourne humidity. Could Glenn Maxwell rediscover his mojo on home soil? All eyes were trained on the mercurial all-rounder as Australia faced a tricky chase against a spirited Pakistan side. He'd been under immense pressure after a string of low scores, the whispers of doubt growing louder with each passing match. Today, destiny called.

Glenn Maxwell silenced his critics in spectacular fashion, smashing a breathtaking century to guide Australia to a thrilling victory over Pakistan in the third One Day International. Played under sunny skies at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Friday, the match saw Maxwell score 108 off just 82 balls, propelling Australia past Pakistan’s competitive total of 294. Australia now leads the five-match series 3-0.

The match unfolded like a classic, a seesaw battle of fluctuating fortunes. Pakistan's innings was anchored by Babar Azam's elegant 105, supported by solid contributions from the middle order. Their score felt substantial, a true test for the Australian batting lineup which had shown signs of vulnerability in recent outings. And the roar of the crowd intensified as Maxwell walked out to bat with the score at 100 for 3.

But what followed was a display of sheer audacity and calculated aggression. Maxwell, initially watchful, soon unleashed a barrage of strokes that had the Pakistanis scrambling. He favored the reverse sweep, employing it to great effect against the spinners, and played on the up against the quicks. Each boundary was met with an eruption of noise, a collective sigh of relief and burgeoning hope washing over the MCG. As the sun dipped below the stands, the atmosphere became feverish, the shadows lengthening with each towering six. It was vintage Maxwell, a reminder of the brilliance he possesses when at his best. A good length delivery from Shaheen Afridi was dispatched over long-on with contemptuous ease. He had reached his century, a moment of pure catharsis for the player and the fans.

This innings was more than just a hundred; it was a statement. It was Maxwell declaring that he is far from finished, that he still has the fire and the talent to dominate on the international stage. It mattered because Australia needs Maxwell at his best if they are to mount a serious challenge in the upcoming World Cup. His ability to turn a match on its head in a matter of overs is invaluable, a game-changing asset that few possess. The series victory also allows the Australian team to experiment with different combinations in the remaining matches, vital preparation for the challenges ahead.

What's next? The series continues, and Australia will look to complete a clean sweep. Pakistan, wounded but not defeated, will be desperate to salvage some pride and end their tour on a positive note. And Maxwell? He'll be looking to build on this performance, to cement his place in the team and to prove that this century was not just a flash in the pan, but a sign of things to come. The fourth ODI promises more drama, more excitement, and perhaps, another chapter in the Maxwell story. It's cricket at its finest.