Cameron Green set to play as batter only in India vs Australia Test series due to back injury

Australia faces a significant setback ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy as all-rounder Cameron Green will be available only as a batter for the first three Tests of the series against India. Green, who has been sidelined with a back injury, is expected to miss bowling duties at least for the initial part of the Test series.

Green suffered a back injury during the 3rd ODI against England, forcing him to withdraw from the match and return to Australia for treatment. Despite the injury ruling him out of bowling, Green is expected to feature in the Test squad as a batter, providing some relief for the Australian team.

The 24-year-old was also pulled out of Sheffield Shield matches as a precautionary measure. While Green’s return as a batter is positive news, his absence as a bowler will be felt by Australia, leaving Mitchell Marsh to take on additional bowling responsibilities during the Border Gavaskar Trophy.

Cameron Green’s Injury Details Green first reported discomfort in his back during the final ODI against England, prompting team officials to fly him back to Perth for further assessment. According to former Australia team doctor Peter Brukner, back stress injuries often result from excessive workload, particularly from bowling, while batting and fielding generally do not put as much strain on the body.

Brukner noted that players with back stress injuries are typically sidelined from bowling until they are fully recovered, as any additional workload could worsen the condition.

Expected Return Cameron Green is expected to return to action in early November for an Australia A vs India A match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). However, it is likely he will be limited to batting until fully fit to resume bowling.

IND vs AUS Test Series Schedule 1st Test: November 22-26, Perth Stadium
2nd Test: December 6-10, Adelaide Oval
3rd Test: December 14-18, The Gabba
4th Test: December 26-30, Melbourne Cricket Ground
5th Test: January 3-7, Sydney Cricket Ground

With Green limited to batting, Australia’s bowling unit will need to adjust to the absence of his contributions with the ball during the crucial first few matches of the series.