The all-rounder rarely had a chance to hit the ball, but he did well in the gully
All-rounder Cameron Green is on the brink of a big IPL deal, but he has ‘strange’ feelings after playing a minimal role in a strong start to the summer of Australian home testing.
The 23-year-old Green has generated a lot of interest ahead of his upcoming IPL player auction, but his apparent bat-and-ball skills haven’t been much sought after lately.
With Australian top orders prevailing against the West Indies, No 6 Green had little chance of spending time en route. He failed to hit in his first-ever Perth Test at home and when his account was up in the air, he made just 9 and 5 at Adelaide.
On a bowler-dominated Gabba surface, Green played smoothly in the first innings, scoring 18 run-a-balls to briefly stave off a South African quick, and when Australia crossed the line in a chase, they narrowly scored. Faced with 3 deliveries.
He also pitched only 32 overs in three Tests, including his three during Gabba games. Green did not play in the Sheffield Shield prior to Test due to late inclusion in Australia’s T20 World Cup squad.
“It was definitely the start of a summer that didn’t have to be overdone,” Green told reporters. Right now I feel really unneeded.
“That’s probably a sign of how well the team is playing. We’re winning cricket matches and that’s what you want.”
But Green is confident he can make a difference if needed in the all-important Boxing Day test against South Africa.
“All you can see is how you’re training and I feel like I’m in a pretty good space.” , that’s all I can say about the way I run. I feel pretty good at the net.”
Green’s defense in the gully was a particular highlight at Brisbane, where he was more than just a spectator as he claimed several sharp catches and five overall. Towering green may be a rarity behind the wicket, but his agility and sure pair of hands made him particularly reliable.
“I used to wear briefs all the time. [Gully] is pretty much like that,” he said.
Green didn’t spend a lot of time batting on the much-talked-about Gabba surface, which match umpire Richie Richardson deemed “below par,” but Green did have a vicious short bouncer from Anrich Norche. faced with Quit the game.
“He (Norce) showed what he can bring to the team…he’s that raw pace,” said Green. “At 150 [km/h], it is not so affected. I think most thugs would be happy to have to deal with that. If you can accept that, it gives you a little glimpse of how you can counter him in the MCG.
After an unexpected few days off, Australia won the traditional Boxing Day test to clinch the series.
“His three days to recharge is invaluable. Many were lucky enough to be able to go home … been out for a long time,” Green said. “Very special [Boxing Day test]. The national anthem always gets you on your nerves, it’s loud there. There were some special games there.”