Cameron Green’s bowling status is back in focus ahead of Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) today’s IPL clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). This time, it has something concrete behind it. A video from KKR’s training session showing the Australian all-rounder bowling in the nets has started new speculation about whether Green could return as a bowling option sooner than expected.
It is an interesting bit from KKR as they know that Green’s bowling (or lack of it) has been the talk of the town in IPL 2026. Just a few days ago, Green did not bowl a single over in KKR’s opening loss to Mumbai Indians, a game where their attack struggled badly while defending 221. His absence with the ball raised immediate questions, especially given the price tag of INR 25.20 crore and the role he was expected to play. KKR head coach has said that Green is touted to replace Andre Russell in the team.
Green’s nets session shows progress
KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane had pointed towards Cricket Australia (CA) when asked about Green’s absence with the ball. The board later clarified that the all-rounder is managing a lower back issue and is gradually building up his bowling workload, with a tentative 10 to 12-day window for a full return.
That makes the nets’ video relevant but not definitive. Bowling in training is part of the process, especially with back-related concerns, but it does not automatically translate into match readiness. Teams tend to be cautious in such cases, and KKR are unlikely to rush him back unless he is fully cleared.
As a matter of fact, players like Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are also bowling in nets. However, they are yet to be deemed fit enough for the IPL. Hazlewood missed the entire Australian summer and the T20 World Cup, Cummins played just one Ashes Test and was ruled out of the World Cup as well.
Still, the fact that Green is bowling again is a positive sign. It suggests that his recovery is on track and that a return with the ball is not too far away.
Why Green’s bowling matters for KKR’s balance
For KKR, this is not just about one player adding a couple of overs. It is about getting their team structure right. In the opening game, they used multiple bowlers but lacked control and variety. The absence of a seam-bowling all-rounder forced them to rely on part-time options, which hurt them in a high-scoring contest.
Green was brought in to solve exactly that problem. Even two or three overs from him can ease the pressure on the main bowlers and give the captain more flexibility with match-ups. His hit-the-deck bowling adds variety to an all-Indian pace attack of KKR (without Matheesha Pathirana). Blessing Muzarabani is inexperienced in the IPL circuit as well.
As things stand, his availability as a bowler against SRH remains uncertain. The signs are encouraging, but the final decision will depend on how he pulls up and what the medical staff advises.
