Cameron Green to Bowl for KKR? Ajinkya Rahane Responds After Cricket Australia Jibe

The 2nd game of IPL 2026 between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium was a high-scoring clash, where the Mumbai batters dominated the match. KKR’s captain, Ajinkya Rahane, led from the front with a classy 67 off 40 balls, propelling his side to a massive total of 220/4.

However, the hosts pulled off a record-breaking chase at their home ground. Despite the humongous target, the five-time champions reached 224/4 with five balls left, with the help of a 148-run opening partnership between Rohit Sharma (78) and Ryan Rickelton (81), who are among some of the best T20 batsmen in the world.

The defeat exposed significant gaps in KKR’s bowling depth, as MI batters had a perfect day on a belter of a pitch at Wankhede. The spotlight shifted to Cameron Green bowling injury update, who was bought at a record-breaking INR 25.20 crore as a complete all-rounder.

KKR Bowling Crisis: The Truth Behind Cameron Green’s Injury

Following the defeat, the post-match press conference shifted to Cameron Green's role as an all-rounder for Kolkata Knight Riders. When asked why the Australian sensation did not bowl a single over despite the mounting pressure from MI’s openers, Ajinkya Rahane delivered a blunt and somewhat cryptic response:

Many interpreted this comment as Ajinkya Rahane Cricket Australia jibe or a sign of frustration regarding workload management mandates. Cricket Australia responded by mentioning that Kolkata's team management was "fully aware" of the situation and that Green is currently under a strict management plan.

Rahane later softened his stance, admitting that the team’s balance was affected but expressing hope that Green, one of the best all-rounders in the world, would return to the bowling crease soon to stabilize their inexperienced attack.

Why Cameron Green Not Bowling in IPL?

The primary reason behind Cameron Green's bowling absence is a lower back injury, which is currently in the healing stage and needs careful management, as per the official statement given by Cricket Australia.

During the IPL 2026 auction, KKR went for Green as they had the highest purse. They clearly saw him as the ideal replacement for Andre Russell as he had retired from the IPL. Despite Green not being able to bowl, he is likely to play as a specialist batter. The right-hander will be key to Knight Riders at the crucial No. 3 spot.