Bluffing a key part of my bowling: Australia's Maxwell

Melbourne, Feb 11 (IANS) Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell Wednesday said bluffing is a key weapon of his bowling and he tries to emulate spin legend Shane Warne in his bid to deceive opponents.

Maxwell has been in sparkling form, hitting 95 and taking four wickets for 46 runs in the One-Day International (ODI) tri-series final against England in Perth Feb 1.

He continued his rich vein of form, scoring 122 off 57 balls in a World Cup warm-up game against India at Adelaide Oval Sunday.

Australia begin their Cup campaign against England Feb 15 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The 26-year-old is expected to play a leading role in the co-hosts push for a record fifth title.

"You can bluff. I think I’ve done that with my bowling beautifully,” Maxwell was quoted as saying by news.com.au.

Maxwell have so far taken 28 wickets in 41 ODIs at an average of 38.03.

"I don’t think I’m Shane Warne but I still seem to take wickets at some stages which is an absolute miracle to me," he said.

"If you can bluff people and exert that confidence that you are in form, it’s amazing how it turns around for you.”

Maxwell said motivational pep-talks from former players Ian Healy, Geoff Marsh and Craig McDermott have inspired the team.

"I can’t describe how exciting it is. Hopefully I can provide that little spark that Australia needs," he said.