Cameron Green's highly anticipated debut as the Indian Premier League's most expensive overseas recruit ever has ended in disappointment, with his Kolkata Knight Riders captain visibly frustrated that the Australian allrounder failed to deliver a single ball during their defeat to Mumbai Indians.
Captain's Cryptic Response Sparks Speculation
Following Sunday's six-wicket loss, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane was asked why the $4.17 million signing Green did not bowl while the rest of the attack struggled at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. Rahane simply smiled and pointedly remarked, "A question you need to ask Cricket Australia..." This comment has inevitably fueled speculation in India that Green, who showed promise with the bat before being dismissed for 18 off 10 balls, might be under workload restrictions imposed by Cricket Australia to safeguard his fitness.
Former Players Weigh In on Green's Role
Earlier this month, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin suggested that Green's pay should be reduced if he fails to bowl his allotted overs in the IPL. Green, who has been carefully managed since undergoing back surgery in late 2024, appeared energetic in the field and struck a massive six and a four in a promising innings at No. 3, until he was caught trying to muscle a short delivery from Shardal Thakur over deep-point.
Despite Green's limited contribution with the bat, KKR posted a formidable total of 4-220, thanks to strong performances from opener Rahane (67 off 40 balls), Kiwi Finn Allen (37 off 17), and Angkrish Raghuvanshi (51 off 29). However, Mumbai Indians achieved the biggest-ever IPL chase at the Wankhede, with Ryan Rickelton (81 off 43) and Rohit Sharma (78 off 38) dominating in a staggering 148-run opening partnership.
Commentary Box Questions Mount
As Mumbai's batsmen pulverized the KKR attack, former England captain Kevin Pietersen repeatedly questioned from the commentary box, "If he's not injured, why is he not bowling?" His bewilderment grew as Sharma reached 50 off 23 balls and Rickelton achieved the milestone in 24 deliveries. When asked about his team's bowling struggles post-match, Rahane expressed hope, stating, "When, hopefully, Green starts to bowl soon in the competition, it will be slightly different. Finding that balance with the ball is really important, so hopefully Green starts to bowl soon, so we can find the combinations that will be okay."
Ultimately, Mumbai secured victory with five balls to spare, finishing on 4-224, despite a slight stutter near the end, with captain Hardik Pandya contributing 18 not out off 11 balls.
