Cameron Green Poised to Return as Bowler for KKR in IPL 2026
Cameron Green's Anticipated Comeback
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India] - Cameron Green is set to make his return to bowling for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) during their IPL 2026 match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at Eden Gardens on Thursday. This comeback comes at a crucial time for KKR, who have been grappling with team balance issues due to several injuries.
As reported by ESPNcricinfo, Green, who has yet to bowl in IPL 2026, started the tournament as a specialist batsman following advice from Cricket Australia due to a lower-back injury. However, after more than ten days since the initial recommendation, the Australian all-rounder is now believed to be ready to bowl in a competitive setting.
Cricket Australia had previously stated on March 30, "Cameron has a lower-back injury that is being managed, requiring him to refrain from bowling temporarily. He is currently working on rebuilding his bowling loads in India, aiming for a return in about 10-12 days."
KKR's lineup has faced significant challenges early in the tournament. The team has been without key bowlers, including Mustafizur Rahman, who was unavailable due to BCCI directives before the season commenced. Additionally, injuries to Harshit Rana and Akash Deep have further strained their pace attack, while Sunil Narine missed the last match due to illness, and Varun Chakaravarthy is out with a hand injury.
The absence of Green as a bowling option has intensified these challenges, leaving KKR lacking in all-round balance. His return is expected to alleviate some of this pressure as the team seeks its first victory of the season after two losses and one washout.
The 26-year-old's batting performance has also come under scrutiny. Acquired for a record Rs 25.20 crore at the IPL auction, the highest ever for an overseas player, Green has scored 18, 2, and 4 in his three innings, prompting questions about his position in the batting lineup.
Aaron Finch commented on Green's struggles, stating, "One of those dismissals was a run out against SRH, which wasn't entirely his fault. However, he has missed out twice. There seems to be a bit of panic; he doesn't look like the player he was before. Remember when he was at the top of the order for MI? He had a completely different intent. Now he appears tentative. Don't push him down the order; either move him up or give him a break."
Green has batted at No. 3 twice and No. 4 once this season, but with his all-round role expected to expand, KKR will be hoping that the Australian can regain his rhythm and confidence in this vital match against LSG.