No green light for Cameron Green; set to play as a pure batter in Nagpur

Green suffered injury against South Africa [Associated Press]

In a major development taking place in the Australian camp, all-rounder Cameron Green has suffered a massive blow and his finger injury has forced him not to bowl in the first Test against India, starting on February 9.

Despite the injury still not healed fully, Green is slated to play in the Nagpur Test, but only as a specialist batter.

This means, Australia will have to accommodate either Matt Renshaw in the middle order, or Peter Handscomb could get a chance in the playing XI after four years of wait.

Green suffered from a broken finger during the Boxing-Day Test against South Africa in December. Days after the incident, he flew to Sydney for a surgery and was ruled out of the ongoing Big Bash League tournament as well.

He is a part of the 18-member squad, taking part in a camp organised in Sydney for the Test bound players. 

Coach Andrew McDonald has provided an update on what lies ahead for Green

“His bowling will be his greatest challenge. He’s got to consult with the surgeon again tomorrow and that’s about the four-week mark – where he should be given a tick of approval that that bone has healed.

“After that it should be just building him up and see how he goes each session. Building confidence is the main thing.”

Green, 23, faced Tennis balls, and bowled with a softer cricket ball on Sunday, in order to prepare for the upcoming India tour.

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