Cameron Green entered IPL 2026 as the most expensive overseas player after Kolkata Knight Riders spent Rs 25.2 crore to sign him at the mini auction. The franchise saw the 26-year-old all-rounder as a crucial piece in their bid for a fourth IPL title.

Spotlight Falls on Role, Not Performance

Green drew attention in KKR’s opening match against his former side Mumbai Indians. However, the focus was not on his batting, but on the fact that he did not bowl, even as KKR failed to defend a 200-plus total at the Wankhede Stadium.

After the match, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane was asked about the decision. He gave a brief response, saying, “Ask Cricket Australia," pointing towards Cricket Australia.

Cricket Australia Clarifies Injury Situation

Cricket Australia later explained that Green is currently managing a lower back injury and is under controlled workload.

“Cameron has a lower back injury which is being managed but requires him to abstain from bowling for a short period. Cameron is currently rebuilding his bowling loads in India with a view to return in around 10-12 days’ time. KKR has been communicated with and is fully aware of this information," a CA spokesperson said.

This confirmed that the franchise already knew about his limited role.

Auction Mix-Up Adds Twist

Green’s registration as a batter in the IPL auction created further curiosity. He later revealed it was due to an error by his manager.

“I’ll be good to bowl. I don’t know if my manager would like to hear this, but there was a stuff-up on his end," Green told ESPNCricinfo. “He didn’t mean to say ‘batter’. I think he accidentally selected the wrong box. It was pretty funny how it’s all played out, but it was actually a stuff-up on his end."

Experts React to Unusual Situation

The development triggered reactions from former cricketers. Aakash Chopra made a light-hearted remark suggesting KKR deserved compensation.

“If you pay for an all-rounder and get a batsman in return… you should be, at the very least, eligible for a refund," he posted on X.

Meanwhile, Kevin Pietersen highlighted the importance of clarity during the auction.

“If KKR knew Green wasn’t allowed to bowl and paid the price for a batter, then it’s ok. That’s their call. If they bought an all-rounder and now he’s not allowed to bowl, that’s NOT ok!" he wrote.

Previous Workload Management

Green’s absence with the ball is not new. He also did not bowl during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, showing that his bowling workload has been restricted for some time.

Why KKR Cannot Force Him to Bowl

As a centrally contracted player under Cricket Australia, Green must follow the board’s workload and fitness guidelines. The board has the final authority over his bowling duties.

This means KKR cannot ask him to bowl unless Cricket Australia gives official clearance, limiting the franchise’s control over his role in matches.