Melbourne Stars' captain, Glenn Maxwell, has stepped down from his leadership role following the team's inability to secure a spot in the Big Bash League (BBL) finals. The decision was confirmed after the Stars' final game of the season against Hobart Hurricanes, where they were already out of contention for the finals. Maxwell, who has two years left on his contract, expressed frustration over the team's inability to clinch a BBL title despite having a competitive roster. This season, Maxwell contributed with both bat and ball, scoring 243 runs at an average of 34.71 and taking seven wickets.

The Melbourne Stars, one of the two BBL teams never to have won the championship, have been the runner-up three times, including consecutive years in 2018-19 and 2019-20. Their closest chance slipped away in BBL8 when they faced an unexpected collapse against Melbourne Renegades.

Peter Moores, the Stars' coach, praised Maxwell's commitment and enthusiasm, highlighting his significant impact on the team. Marcus Stoinis, another key player for the Stars, is also out of contract, but the club reportedly aims to re-sign him for future campaigns.