Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Ajinkya Rahane remained tight-lipped about Cameron Green’s bowling fitness, stating that the Australian all-rounder’s return with the ball would significantly strengthen the team’s balance.
Green was seen marking his run-up and going through bowling drills during the warm-up ahead of KKR’s IPL 2026 clash against Lucknow Super Giants. The star all-rounder is yet to bowl this season after undergoing back surgery but has been steadily increasing his workload in the nets.
Green’s Bowling Crucial to KKR’s Balance
Green’s absence as a bowling option has affected KKR’s team combination. The franchise has also been hit by setbacks, with Mustafizur Rahman withdrawing and Indian pacers Harshit Rana and Akash Deep sidelined due to injuries.
Although Green has resumed bowling in practice, Rahane suggested at the toss that he may not yet be ready to bowl in a competitive match.
“When he (Green) is allowed to bowl, we will probably see him. The combination gets better, so Rovman Powell plays. When Cam Green bowls, then we have that extra bowler with us,” Rahane said.
Bought for a staggering ₹25.2 crore, Green—KKR’s most expensive overseas signing—has struggled with the bat so far and is yet to bowl due to workload management protocols set by Cricket Australia.
Narine Returns, Varun Still Sidelined
Meanwhile, veteran all-rounder Sunil Narine returned to KKR’s playing XI after missing the rain-affected match against Punjab Kings. However, his spin partner Varun Chakravarthy remained unavailable as he continues to recover from a finger injury.
Rahane confirmed the changes at the toss, saying:
“We wanted to bowl. Just one change—Sunil comes in place of Blessing. Varun is still recovering from his hand injury.”
Green’s Last Bowling Appearance
Green last bowled in February during Australia’s T20 World Cup clash against Oman, where he conceded just 11 runs in two overs. Since then, he has featured in multiple matches across tournaments but has not bowled.
KKR have continued to back the Australian star, with Rovman Powell being included to strengthen the batting during recent matches, including the washed-out fixture.
With Green inching closer to full fitness, his return as a genuine all-rounder could prove pivotal to KKR’s IPL 2026 campaign.
