Ajinkya Rahane indicated that Cameron Green is still waiting for Cricket Australia’s clearance before he can bowl in the ongoing IPL. Ahead of Kolkata Knight Riders’ match against Lucknow Super Giants, Green was spotted working through his run-up and bowling drills during the warm-up, but he has yet to take the field as a bowler this season. The all-rounder’s absence stems from back surgery, and he has been gradually building his workload in the nets rather than making an immediate return to match overs.
Rahane also suggested that even if Green resumes bowling in practice, he may not be fully ready to shoulder bowling responsibilities in a live game. When asked how Green’s potential availability would change KKR’s combination, Rahane pointed to the balance it would bring to the XI. With Green capable of offering another bowling option, KKR would gain extra flexibility in how they structure their roles across the innings.
“When he (Green) is allowed to bowl, we will probably see him—then the combination gets better. Rovman Powell plays; when Cam Green bowls, then we have that extra bowler with us,” Rahane said during the toss.
Rahane’s comments came as KKR made a notable adjustment for the Thursday encounter. Sunil Narine returned to the playing XI for this crucial game after missing the previous match against Punjab Kings, which was washed out due to rain. However, Narine’s usual spin-supporting partner, Varun Chakarvarthy, did not make the XI, with Rahane explaining that Varun is still recovering from a finger injury.
Rahane clarified the thinking behind the change at the toss: “We wanted to bowl. Just one change—Sunil comes in place of Blessing. Varun is still recovering from his hand injury.”
Lucknow, meanwhile, chose to bowl first. Rishabh Pant, speaking after opting to bat second, highlighted that the decision reflects KKR’s desire to apply early pressure and backed their bowling unit to execute the plan once the innings begins. He also noted that a recent win has lifted the mood in the camp, reinforcing their overall approach and keeping the group aligned around the same intent.
“I think looking to bowl first. We want to put opposition at the back. Like I said before, we trust our bowlers enough that they might do a good job for us,” Pant said. When asked about the impact of the earlier victory, he added that winning helps the atmosphere, and that the team is continuing with the same XI, keeping their process steady rather than tinkering for the sake of it.
Pant also addressed KKR’s batting structure and how they plan to manage the innings. “We feel, our top order is definitely batting heavy, but at the same time we trust our top order to get us through the whole innings. You know, that’s what we are here for,” he concluded.
