Maxwell and Livingstone under Scanner as Kohli Brings Home Glory in IPL 2025

Two major overseas stars Glenn Maxwell and Liam Livingstone have faced much criticism during the current season of IPL 2025 for their poor showings. Virender Sehwag, who is a former Indian cricketer, never minced his words while speaking of the two cricketers. He mentioned that they don't give any indication of hunger to play for their sides and instead appear as though they are here only to have a holiday. Sehwag made these strong words during an interview on Cricbuzz. He stated that it seems they arrive in India only to relax and then return without adding anything substantial to their sides. In his opinion the urge to win and battle for the team is lacking in both players.

Until now this season Maxwell has been able to score only 41 runs and has picked up 4 wickets which is very poor given the expectations from a player of his stature. Liam Livingstone too has not been able to perform and has scored only 87 runs in the tournament. As a result of these poor showings both of them were excluded from the playing eleven by their teams. Romario Shepherd was brought in place of Livingstone by Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Maxwell hasn't played for Punjab Kings in recent matches.

Sehwag also said that he has met numerous cricketers during his career but only a handful made him feel that they really wanted to play and win games for the team. He was frustrated as he indicated the absence of seriousness and effort from players who are meant to be match-winners but are not taking responsibility on the field.

While Maxwell and Livingstone are finding it tough a familiar face is once again reminding everyone why he is one of the best in the business. Virat Kohli is having an outstanding season and recently won a big milestone in the history of IPL. He now also holds the record for the highest fifty-plus score in IPL breaking David Warner. Kohli achieved this milestone in a game against Punjab Kings in which he played an unbeaten 73 off merely 54 balls. He recorded seven fours and a six in that innings and played with a composed but forceful attitude. He guided his side to chase the target confidently thanks to his innings and remained at the helm.

This half-century was Kohli’s fourth in just eight innings this season which shows how consistent he has been. He now has 67 fifty-plus scores in the IPL which also includes eight centuries. With 8,326 runs to his name he has maintained an average of 39.27 and a solid strike rate of 132.26. His personal record in the league is an un-beaten 113 which is indicative of the kind of match-winning knocks that he is capable of producing. His run hunger and team work have helped him stand out yet again this season.

In RCB's games where a target has been chased by them, Kohli has been particularly exceptional. He has been instrumental in many successful run-chases. He scored 59 not out off 36 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders, 62 not out off 45 balls against Rajasthan Royals and 73 not out against Punjab Kings. Not only are they good scores they are match-winning scores. They have put him as the third-highest run-scorer this season and the highest scorer for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He has 322 runs from eight matches with an average of 64.40 and strike rate of 140.00. Wherever he steps into the ground he seems to be completely in mind and willing to lead his side to win.

Whereas Kohli is shattering records and motivating the followers with his run players like Maxwell and Livingstone have left so many disappointed. Expections were high from these foreign stars but they haven't been able to live up to it. Their poor form has not only impacted their individual stats but also put pressure on their teams. In a tournament like the IPL where each game matters and the opposition is strong players are required to rise to the occasion and perform. There is no place for the ones who play it as if it's a break or holiday.

The contrast between Kohli’s drive and the laid-back attitude of some others has been clearly visible this season. Kohli has once again proved why he is considered one of the greatest in the league. His passion energy and form are exactly what every team looks for in a leader. As the IPL 2025 continues, the fans and the teams will remain hopeful that such players as Maxwell and Livingstone regain their touch and give in the way that is hoped from them. Meanwhile Kohli just goes on taking center stage by delivering stunning performances.