Western Australia’s star all-rounder Cameron Green has been rebuilt and he’s good to go. He’ll get the chance to test it out in a crucial Sheffield Shield match against Queensland. Green has just returned from his long-delayed recovery from the fifth stress fracture of his lower back. How he performs this week will be key in determining if he can make it to the opening Ashes series. He last bowled in a competitive match on October 5, and his last Test match was in March 2024.
Green is certainly returning to the bowling crease! Not only did he go through a measured rehab process, but he put a laser focus on getting his back right. At 26 years young, Green has proven to be a fighter and commitment over the last year. His ability to bowl effectively during the Shield match could impact team selection for the national squad, particularly concerning fellow players Beau Webster and Jake Weatherald.
Recent Performance and Recovery
Cameron Green’s most recent natural bowling short-form backup came in a September 2023 ODI series in England. In the years since, he’s continued to play matches only as a batter while developing his bowling craft in practice innings. He only bowled four overs this season. Officials would like to see him build on this going into against Queensland, with a target of 15 to 20 overs.
Green’s return will be welcomed after dealing with some uneventful side soreness, which he was able to bar before this crucial matchup. Chief selector George Bailey said the selectors were confident with Green’s preparation. Bailey stated, “It is a 12-month build, so to rush a step at the last moment doesn’t make much sense.” This deliberate process to Green’s return illustrates the overarching long-term plan at play with his rehabilitation and performance.
“Your all-rounder doesn’t need to be in a position to bowl 30 to 40 overs hopefully. I think he will be really well placed.” – AAP
The Importance of the Sheffield Shield Match
The upcoming match against Queensland represents a critical opportunity for Green to validate his fitness and readiness for the Ashes. His performance will not only gauge his own capabilities but influence team dynamics regarding other players like Webster and Weatherald. Both players are perhaps laying claim to be in the 15-man Test squad. Green’s prowess in the bowling department is likely to have a huge impact on their fortunes.
Bailey is hopeful with data and insights that will be achieved from Shield cricket matches this week. He noted, “We are confident we will get good information from this round of Shield cricket and he will be bowling for us (in the opening Test).”
Adjustments to Bowling Technique
In welcome preparation for his return, Green has already done significant rewiring on his action. He mentioned, “There have been minor changes with the bowling angle of my run up and trying to get my front foot slightly more out of the way and to the left, so I don’t have to fall over too much to get through the crease and trying to stand a bit taller.” These adjustments are to help him play at the highest level possible while reducing the chances of re-injury.
As Green approaches this critical test of his reworked action, all eyes will be on his performance during the Shield match. His success or challenges could have lasting implications for both his career and the Australian team’s strategy for the Ashes.
