Cameron Green ruled out of England ODIs due to back injury

Australia’s allrounder Cameron Green has been ruled out of the remaining two ODIs against England due to a back injury. The news comes after Green reported soreness following the third ODI in Durham, where he bowled a series of short balls. Green has already left the tour to return home for further assessment.

Injury Details and Green’s Return

According to a statement from Cricket Australia, Green underwent scans in London that revealed the back injury. “Cameron Green has sustained a back injury and will play no further part in the ODI tour of England,” the statement read. His return to play will be determined after further evaluation in Australia. Green has previously suffered stress fractures in his back, particularly in 2019, before making his Test debut.

Travis Head, speaking after the Lord’s ODI, expressed disappointment over the situation but remained hopeful about Green’s recovery. “He’ll go home and get things sorted. It’s disappointing, but he’s been through these things before and knows the way to get back.”

Impact on Australia’s Summer Plans

If Green faces an extended layoff, it could affect Australia’s preparation for their home season, particularly the Test series against India. Green recently made a mark with his 174 not out in Wellington, re-establishing himself as a key player in the Test lineup. His absence could impact Australia’s batting order, allowing for possible reshuffles, including moving Steven Smith back to No. 4 and bringing in a new opener alongside Usman Khawaja.

Coach Andrew McDonald had previously stated that the incumbent top six of the Test side would remain unchanged, barring injury. However, Green’s unavailability could open doors for players like Cameron Bancroft, Matt Renshaw, or Marcus Harris. Renshaw was the reserve batter during the series against West Indies and New Zealand following David Warner’s retirement.

Bowling Concerns and Future Outlook

Beyond his batting, Green’s bowling overs have been crucial for balancing the workload with Australia’s frontline attack. If Green’s injury limits his bowling, there is still a possibility to use him as a specialist batter. Ricky Ponting, speaking on Sky Sports, remarked, “We know with Cameron Green, he has had stress fractures in his back in the past. Let’s hope it’s not that.”

Green’s absence would place more responsibility on Mitchell Marsh, who has recently returned to bowling after an injury during the IPL. Marsh’s role as a pace-bowling allrounder would be critical in filling the void left by Green.

Upcoming Matches

Green was expected to play at least one Sheffield Shield match in October before the start of Australia’s international season. With Pakistan visiting for T20Is and ODIs, followed by the Tests against India starting on November 22 in Perth, his recovery timeline will be closely watched by the Australian team management.