Ricky Ponting Evaluates Cameron Green's Progress in International Cricket

Ponting's Insights on Cameron Green's Career

In New Delhi, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting shared his thoughts on the current status of all-rounder Cameron Green in his early international career. Despite Australia securing the Ashes series after the first three Tests, Green's performance has been less than stellar, accumulating only 76 runs and taking two wickets across the matches, with limited opportunities to bowl.

Ponting pointed out that while Green is gaining experience, assessing his overall contribution to Test cricket remains difficult. He noted, "It's quite challenging to gauge him as an international player. His average in Australia is below 30, and his overall career average hovers just above 30. In about 30 Test matches, he has scored two centuries. After undergoing back surgery, his bowling speed seems to have diminished compared to a year ago," as reported by a sports news outlet.

Since his debut against India in Adelaide five years ago, Green has participated in 35 Tests, scoring 1641 runs at an average nearing 33, along with 37 wickets. Despite this, Ponting emphasized that Green's unique skill set distinguishes him, highlighting moments that showcase his potential in the Australian team.

Ponting remarked, "There is a very complete package there if it all comes together. We've witnessed him play some remarkable innings, including an impressive century in New Zealand last year and another in India on a flat pitch." Green's first Test century came in Ahmedabad, where he scored 114 under challenging circumstances, followed by an outstanding unbeaten 174 in Wellington in March 2024, leading Australia to a significant 172-run victory.

Beyond individual achievements, Ponting acknowledged Green's importance in the Australian squad, noting that consistency in his approach is crucial moving forward. "Conversations with players and coaching staff reveal that they truly appreciate what he contributes to the team," Ponting stated.

He added, "The main challenge for him is to discover the right style that suits him, commit to it, and maintain that approach over time." Ponting also mentioned that Green's inclination to constantly seek solutions might complicate his development, offering straightforward advice instead.

"He tends to overthink his game and frequently makes adjustments," Ponting observed. "If I could advise him, it would be to simplify things, focus on what has worked for him in domestic cricket, and apply that in Test matches consistently."