Cricket Australia responded strongly to Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Ajinkya Rahane after he claimed that the reason Cameron Green didn't bowl in their heavy loss to Mumbai Indians was known only to the Australian cricket board.
KKR were convincingly beaten on March 29, as Hardik Pandya’s side successfully chased down a target of 221 with ease, finishing the match with six wickets in hand and five deliveries remaining. The opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton proved decisive, as they added 148 runs and effectively took control of the game early on.
Following the loss, Rahane appeared frustrated when asked by Ian Bishop on Green's unavailability as a bowler. He indicated that the matter should be addressed by Cricket Australia, implying that the board had imposed restrictions on the all-rounder’s participation with the ball.
In response, Cricket Australia clarified that KKR were informed ahead of time that Green would not be bowling for approximately 10 to 12 days of the tournament due to a back injury.
“Cameron is dealing with a lower back injury, which is being treated, and he needs to refrain from bowling for a brief period,” a Cricket Australia spokesperson said.
“Cameron is gradually increasing his bowling workload in India and is expected to be ready to bowl again in about 10–12 days.KKR have been informed and is completely aware of these details," CA spokesperson added.
Green’s temporary inability to bowl has added to KKR’s concerns, as the team is already dealing with injuries to Harshit Rana and Matheesha Pathirana. They have also parted ways with Mustafizur Rahman, which further weakens their bowling options.
If the current recovery plan is followed, Green is expected to remain unavailable as a bowler for at least the first four matches. He is likely to play purely as a batter in upcoming games against SunRisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, and Lucknow Super Giants.