IPL 2026: KKR increasing pressure on Cameron Green? Australia’s head coach expressed concern about the price tag
Kolkata Knight Riders all-rounder Cameron Green finds himself under scrutiny in IPL 2026, with questions being raised over his role and impact after the defeat to Mumbai Indians. However, Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has backed the 26-year-old, highlighting the weight of expectations that comes with being a high-priced all-rounder.
Green was bought by KKR for Rs 25.2 crore. Did not bowl in the opening match of the season at Wankhede, Where the KKR attack struggled to defend 220 runs. His absence as a bowling option was glaring as MI chased the target comfortably, exposing the lack of depth in KKR’s attack.
MI vs KKR, IPL 2026: Update | Achievement:
However, Andrew McDonald suggested that expectations from Green may be too high, while supporting the 26-year-old to find his balance soon.
Speaking on SEN Radio, McDonald said, “There are huge expectations within the IPL, and there are huge expectations from any all-rounder who shapes up the Australian team. It’s not unreasonable, but there is an expectation from all-rounders to contribute in a certain way.”
He said, “It’s almost as if they want his average to be below 45 with the bat and 30 with the ball. And there are very few who do that. I’m sure his career will go upwards… We know he is very good. He just has to balance all those expectations, and especially, play in all three formats, which is a significant challenge for any cricketer.”
Why is Cameron Green not bowling for KKR?
Questions raised over Green’s absence with the ball in the openerEspecially after KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane showed signs of improvement in the team combination after starting the bowling.
It was later clarified by Cricket Australia that Green is currently suffering from a back problem, which will keep him away from bowling for approximately 10 to 12 days. The KKR management is fully aware of the situation and their workload is being managed carefully.
This ban significantly affected KKR’s balance against MI, especially as the team is already missing key bowling options like Harshit Rana and Akash Deep, while Mathisha Pathirana is unavailable.
Without Green’s extra overs, KKR bowlers came under immense pressure. Varun Chakravarthy remained wicketless while Vaibhav Arora and Blessing Muzarabani were dismissed by the MI openers.
Green also performed well with the bat and scored 18 runs in 10 balls before being dismissed by Shardul Thakur.
Despite the underwhelming start, McDonald’s endorsement underscores the belief that Green’s long-term value goes beyond immediate returns. For KKR, his return as a complete all-round option could be crucial in restoring balance in the coming games.
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