[Watch] Cameron Green's Sickening Blow Gives Labuschagne The Golden Opportunity To Shine

Green was struck on the head [Twitter]

Cameron Green was at the receiving end of Kagiso Rabada’s hostile spell of bowling during the 1st ODI match played on Thursday. This incident took place during the second innings when Australia were required to chase down a modest target of 223. Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi chipped in with early wickets to reduce the visitors to 38-2 at the start of the 6th over.

Cameron Green walked into bat with his side situated in a precarious situation. In only the second ball that he faced, Green was struck by a fearsome bouncer directed at his body by Kagiso Rabada. 

As a result, he suffered a heavy blow on the left side of his head which brought about a momentary pause in the game. While the medical staff was conducting its routine concussion procedures, it was revealed that Green developed some swelling around his left ear and also had some droplets of blood seeping through.

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The bouncer delivered by Rabada came at a rapid pace of over 140 kph. Green had very little time to react and took his eye off the ball at the very last minute which resulted in such a devastating blow. 

He was left with no option but to retire hurt making way for Marnus Labuschagne who was named as his concussion replacement. Following his departure, Australia slipped further into a hole as they were reduced to 113-7 during the 17th over of the chase.

However, Labuschagne maintained his composure and scored a match-saving knock of 80* (93) to steer Australia to a closely contested run-chase.

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