Finch: Green looks ‘tentative’ but KKR shouldn’t ‘push him down’ the order

Cameron Green Struggles to Make an Impact for KKR

After three innings in IPL 2026, Cameron Green has yet to make a mark for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). On ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut programme, former Australia captain Aaron Finch noted, “there’s a bit of panic; he’s not looking like his old self.”

Rain-Affected Match Against Punjab Kings

KKR’s home game against Punjab Kings on Monday was heavily affected by rain, with only 3.4 overs possible. Cameron Green came to the crease but was dismissed caught behind off Xavier Bartlett on his second delivery. The 26-year-old allrounder, bought for INR 25.20 crore (~USD 2.8 million / AUD 4.2 million), became the most expensive overseas player in IPL auction history. However, his three innings so far have been inconsistent, scoring 18 off 10 against former team Mumbai Indians and then 2 off 2 via a run out against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Finch Highlights Green’s Tentative Approach

“One dismissal was a run out, not his fault,” Finch said. “But he’s missed out twice. There’s a bit of panic. Back when he opened for MI, he had a completely different approach.” In 2023, Green batted at No. 3 for MI, scoring 452 runs in 16 innings at an average of 50.22 and a strike rate of 160.28.

Suggested Batting Adjustments for Green

Finch added, “He was commanding at the crease. Now he looks tentative. Don’t push him lower; either move him up the order or give him a break.” In IPL 2026 so far, Green has entered the innings in the sixth over at No. 3, fifth over at No. 4, and second over at No. 3.

Criticism of KKR’s Batting Strategy

Finch also questioned KKR’s strategy to bat first against PBKS. The Eden Gardens pitch, left under covers for hours due to rain, favored seamers. “Choosing to bat on a rain-affected wicket makes no sense,” Finch explained. “It’s not about being two down for 25 runs; it’s the principle. When all the information is available cloud cover, rain forecast, DLS benefits for the second-batting team this decision seems flawed.”

Pressure Mounts on Green

Green faces growing pressure to justify his record-breaking price, and KKR may need to adjust their batting strategy to help him regain confidence.

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