Kolkata: Cameron Green is expected to return to bowling duties for Kolkata Knight Riders in their IPL 2026 clash against Lucknow Super Giants at Eden Gardens on Thursday, offering a timely boost to a side grappling with injury concerns.
According to ESPNcricinfo, Green had started the season as a specialist batter following guidance from Cricket Australia due to a lower-back injury. With over 10 days since the advisory, the all-rounder is now ready to resume bowling in a competitive match.
KKR have struggled with team balance in the early stages of the tournament, with multiple injury setbacks disrupting their combination. The absence of key bowlers, including Mustafizur Rahman, along with injuries to Harshit Rana and Akash Deep, has weakened their pace attack.
Further setbacks saw Sunil Narine miss the previous match due to illness, while Varun Chakaravarthy was sidelined with a hand injury, leaving the team short of bowling options.
Green’s absence as a bowling option had compounded the issue, but his return is expected to restore some balance as KKR chase their first win of the season after two defeats and a washout.
The 26-year-old’s form with the bat has also been under scrutiny. Bought for a record ₹25.20 crore at the IPL auction, the highest for an overseas player, Green has managed scores of 18, 2 and 4 in three innings.
Former Australia captain Aaron Finch noted that the all-rounder appears tentative at the crease, suggesting a change in batting position or a short break could help him regain confidence.
With his all-round role set to expand, KKR will be hoping Green can rediscover rhythm with both bat and ball in the crucial encounter against LSG.
