Cameron Green Set to Bat and Bowl in Ashes Return

Cameron Green is taking his first steps back as a fully-fledged allrounder ahead of the Ashes. He will bat at four for Western Australia in his first Sheffield Shield game in over 18 months. Green has recovered from back surgery and will also bowl, though his overs are restricted to eight in this match against NSW at the WACA Ground.

Gradual Bowling Comeback

Green is sitting out Australia’s current T20I series in New Zealand to focus on long-form cricket and slowly rebuild his bowling stamina. He is expected to play in Australia’s home ODI series against India later this month. The measured approach ensures he is ready and fit to contribute in the Ashes Tests starting November 21 in Perth.

Batting at First Drop

Green will continue to bat at No.3 in Tests, a position he returned to during winter. His early scores at this position were low, but he later produced valuable innings in the Caribbean with scores of 52, 26, 42, and 46. Captain Pat Cummins wants to keep Australia’s top-order stable, and having Green at first drop supports this strategy.

Managing Bowling Workload

Green may have to bowl fewer overs if he remains at No.3. Coach Andrew McDonald has suggested "front-ending" his overs so he is not drained when batting. Fellow allrounder Beau Webster, batting at six, could help take some of the bowling responsibility, giving Green time to focus on his top-order batting.

Careful Rehabilitation

Green underwent a radical spinal-fusion operation in Christchurch. The surgery is popular among fast bowlers with back injuries, allowing them to return safely without rushing. Green has been building his fitness gradually, playing all formats for Australia while carefully monitoring his bowling workload to prevent setbacks.

Lessons from Past Allrounders

Green compared his situation to Shane Watson, who batted high in the order and bowled long spells. He noted that it is challenging to bowl long periods in the field and then bat at the top, requiring careful management of energy and workload. His plan ensures he peaks for the Ashes series.

Green emphasized the importance of a slow, structured return. With no urgent tournaments immediately after surgery, he had the opportunity to fully rehabilitate his body. He acknowledged that fast bowlers face risks, as back injuries can occur even with proper care, but this approach gives him the best chance for a sustainable return to top-level cricket.

By gradually resuming bowling and maintaining his batting position, Green aims to be unrestricted by the start of the Ashes. His measured return reflects careful planning by both Green and the Australian cricket team to ensure he contributes effectively with both bat and ball in the upcoming Test series.