KKR could not defend 220 against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium last night, March 29. During the bowlers’ struggle to retain the MI batter, many wondered why Cameron Green did not ask to bowl. Here comes the explanation.
Cricket Australia has confirmed that Cameron Green is currently dealing with a minor back complaint which is preventing him from bowling. The 26-year-old all-rounder underwent significant back surgery at the end of 2024. He is now dealing with a fresh lower back problem.
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A Cricket Australia spokesman says Green is rebuilding his bowling in India. He is expected to return to full fitness in 10-12 days.
A spokesperson confirms that its IPL franchise, the Kolkata Knight Riders, has been fully informed of the situation. Green also played in the ninth round of the Sheffield Shield only as a batsman. This was after he returned from the T20 World Cup in February.
Green made his much-anticipated IPL debut in KKR’s opening match against Mumbai Indians. He was batting at number 3.
The number 42 hit 4 and 6 before being dismissed for 18 off 10 balls. He tried an aggressive shot at Shardul Thakur who later won the man of the match award as MI won by 6 wickets.
Ajinkya Rahane acknowledged after the match that Green’s bowling availability would be crucial for KKR to find their ideal combination.
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“Unfortunately Cameron Green can’t bowl at the moment. When he starts bowling, the combination will be a bit different,” Rahane said after the match.
“Finding balance with the ball is really important. So hopefully Green will start throwing early so we can find combinations that will be OK,” he added.
When asked why Cameron Green was not bowling, Rahane said: “You have to ask Cricket Australia that question.”
The cryptic note opened the door to much speculation. Now Cricket Australia has cleared it.
Reaction on social networks
Social media reacted to Cameron Green not bowling in the Mumbai match. The Australian’s absence from the bowling has been talked about by many cricket pundits.
“It is absolutely crucial for KKR’s balance that Cameron Green bowls. His bowling will allow them to play Rovman Powell to complete the batting line-up,” Harsha Bhogle wrote on social media.
“If you pay for an All-Rounder and get a batsman in return… you should at least be entitled to a refund,” wrote Akash Chopra.
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Social media users demanded a response from Cricket Australia.
“Cricket Australia, we need answers as to why Cameron Green can’t play for KKR,” wrote one.
“CAMERON GREEN COOKED KKR. Kolkata Knight Riders bought Cameron Green for all-rounder but refused the ball. 25 crore wasted by KKR,” wrote another.
One user asked, “So Cameron Green was bought for 25.20 CR just for his batting? I remember people explaining the dynamics of the auction to me, but I certainly don’t understand this obsession with Cameron Green when he is not even among the best T20 players.”
“Cameron Green, just as he cheated Australian cricket for the last 5 years, is now cheating the KKR team. This man is not bowling. He is only in the team as a special batsman. How embarrassing and pathetic,” chimed in another.
