Why Did Cameron Green Not Bowl Against Mumbai Indians? Cricket Australia Clarifies
Cricket Australia Addresses KKR's Concerns
New Delhi: In response to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Ajinkya Rahane's comments regarding Cameron Green's absence from bowling during their recent match against the Mumbai Indians, Cricket Australia has provided clarification. Rahane had expressed confusion over Green's lack of bowling, suggesting that the Australian board was responsible for the decision.
During the match on Sunday, KKR faced a significant defeat, with the Mumbai Indians successfully chasing down a target of 221 runs with six wickets and five balls to spare. The opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton was pivotal, as they amassed 148 runs, putting KKR in a challenging position early in the game.
Frustrated by the loss, Rahane questioned why Green, who was acquired for a record Rs 25.20 crore, did not bowl. He indicated that the inquiry should be directed to Cricket Australia, hinting that the board had restricted Green's bowling participation in the IPL.
Cricket Australia has since clarified that Green is managing a lower back injury, which necessitates a temporary halt to his bowling. They stated, “Cameron is currently rebuilding his bowling loads in India and is expected to return to bowling in approximately 10-12 days. KKR has been informed and is fully aware of this situation.”
Making his debut for KKR, Green batted at No. 3 but only managed to score 18 runs off 10 balls as the team set a total of 220/4.
Green's inability to bowl adds pressure on KKR, which is already grappling with injuries to players like Harshit Rana and Matheesha Pathirana. Additionally, they had to release Mustafizur Rahman due to ongoing tensions between India and Bangladesh.
If KKR follows Cricket Australia's guidelines, Green is unlikely to bowl in the first four matches of the IPL. For now, he will participate as a specialist batsman in upcoming games against SunRisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants until he receives clearance from Cricket Australia.