In a colossal blow to Australia weeks ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at home, star all-rounder Cameron Green has been ruled out for at least six months. Green is set to undergo surgery for a stress fracture in his lower back.
Like other fast bowlers over the years -- Jason Behrendorff, James Pattinson, Ben Dwarshuis, Shane Bond and Matt Henry -- Green will have screws and a titanium cable fused into his lower back to prevent stress fractures in future. Green has had conversations with teammate Behrendorff before taking the big decision.
"Cam has a unique defect in an adjacent area to the fracture that is believed to be contributing to the injury," Cricket Australia said in a statement on October 14. "After thorough consultation it was determined Cameron would benefit from the surgery to stabilise the defect and reduce the risk of future recurrence."
Green learned about the diagnosis during a routine scan in August earlier this year. He had bowled a lot on the the UK tour during the five T20Is and ODIs.
Who will replace Green in playing XI?
In Green’s absence, Mitchell Marsh’s role will become crucial in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Marsh has had experience against India. However, the T20I captain has managed to score just 165 runs from five Tests without a half-century. With the ball, his numbers are not impressive either with just one wicket. Michael Neser is another option. He can bowl well in familiar conditions and also contribute lower down the order.
Steve Smith back at no.4?
After David Warner retired from the format, Steve Smith expressed his desire to open the innings alongside Usman Khawaja and he did. While there were speculations that Travis Head may be promoted up the order to unsettle the Indian pacers early on in the innings, Smith may have to return to his old spot no.4 for the five-Test series.
The five-Test series will begin on November 21 at Perth Stadium. Australia will be looking to reclaim the trophy after two back-to-back series defeats at home.
