Cameron Green Set to Resume Bowling for KKR Against LSG
A Pivotal Return for Kolkata Knight Riders
The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have endured a challenging start to their IPL 2026 campaign, but a glimmer of positive news has emerged ahead of their clash against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the iconic Eden Gardens. Cameron Green, the marquee signing for the franchise, is expected to return to his full capacity as an all-rounder on Thursday.
For the opening matches of the season, Green’s involvement was strictly limited. The Australian star did not bowl a single delivery in KKR’s first two encounters against Mumbai Indians (MI) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). This restriction stemmed from clear instructions provided by Cricket Australia on March 30, citing a lower-back injury that required a period of load management and rest.
Managing the Load
Cricket Australia’s medical team had outlined a specific recovery trajectory for the talented youngster. At the time of the announcement, officials noted that Green was rebuilding his bowling loads in India with the intention of returning to competitive bowling within 10 to 12 days. As the tournament reaches its 15th game, the timeline for his return has finally matured, with reports indicating that Green is fully cleared to bowl in a competitive match scenario.
This development comes at a critical juncture for KKR. The team has faced significant personnel challenges throughout the start of the tournament. The bowling unit, in particular, has been depleted by a series of unfortunate events:
- Mustafizur Rahman: Removed from the squad prior to the tournament start due to BCCI directives.
- Harshit Rana & Akash Deep: Ruled out of the competition due to pre-tournament injuries.
- Sunil Narine: Missed the recent fixture due to illness.
- Varun Chakravarthy: Sidelined with a hand injury.
With such a heavy attrition rate among the primary bowlers, Green’s return to the bowling crease offers captain and management a much-needed tactical boost to balance the side.
Form Struggles and Expectations
While his bowling availability is a major positive, questions have begun to swirl regarding Green’s performance with the bat. Acquired for a record-breaking INR 25.20 crore—the highest ever for an overseas player at an IPL auction—the expectations placed upon his shoulders are immense. Unfortunately, his output in the first three innings has been modest, totaling only 18, 2, and 4 runs respectively.
Former Australian captain Aaron Finch, speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut, weighed in on the struggles of his compatriot. “One of those dismissals was a run out, which wasn’t his fault,” Finch noted. “Still, he’s missed out twice. There’s a bit of panic; he’s not looking the same as in the past. Remember when he was at the top of the order for MI—how he had a totally different intent? He was imposing at the crease. Now he looks tentative.”
Tactical Adjustments Ahead
Finch suggested that KKR needs to handle the young talent with care to unlock his true potential. “Don’t push him down. Push him either up the order, or give him a rest,” Finch advised. To date, KKR has utilized Green at the No. 3 position twice and at No. 4 on one occasion. Whether he returns to bowling duties will spark a renewed sense of confidence, providing the all-rounder with the opportunity to influence the game through both his bowling and his batting rhythm.
As KKR prepares to take on LSG, all eyes will be on Cameron Green. If he can regain his confidence with the bat and provide crucial overs with the ball, the Knight Riders will be hoping to turn their season around and climb the points table before it is too late.
