Maxwell hopes return is just the start

Allrounder Glenn Maxwell is determined to help Australia prolong Pakistan's horror summer during Sunday's second VB ODI in Melbourne on Sunday.

Maxwell made a successful return to national duties on Friday, combining with centurion Matthew Wade for a timely sixth-wicket partnership of 82 to help set up Australia's 92-run victory at the Gabba.

The Victorian, who was left out of the ODI team during last month's series against New Zealand and the previous tours of South Africa and Sri Lanka, looked in fine touch before being dismissed for 60 by Hasan Ali.

Maxwell hopes his aggressive knock was just the beginning of a fruitful summer representing his country, including on the Test tour of India next month.

"I've been hitting the ball really well, having changed a few things technically and mentally," he said on Saturday.

"It feels like it's all coming together and I feel really at home at the crease at the moment. It'd be nice to do a Wadey and be that 100 not out and really seeing us through that whole innings."

After losing the Test series 3-0, Pakistan's woes continued at the Gabba with ODI captain Azhar Ali injuring his hamstring days after vice-captain Sarfraz Ahmed returned home to be with his sick mother.

With Azhar in grave doubt for Sunday's clash at the MCG, it is unclear who would lead Pakistan in his absence.

In-form paceman Josh Hazlewood is set to return for Australia after being rested for the first ODI, although towering quick Billy Stanlake is expected to be available after falling ill at the Gabba.

The ODI series has commenced in the shadow of debate about Australia's Test squad for the India tour, which will be named on Sunday morning before the second ODI.

Maxwell has been unable to crack into the Test side on home soil but his experience on the subcontinent and handy off-spin means he is a strong chance to be included.

"Having not been in the Test squad since 2014, it's a long time between drinks, that's for sure," he said.

"I just know if I get that opportunity, I'll be desperate to keep hold of it and to stay there."