The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are reportedly feeling anxious about the performance of their high-profile recruit, Cameron Green, as highlighted by former Australian opener Aaron Finch. Green, who was acquired for a staggering $4.2 million, making him the most expensive overseas player in IPL history, has struggled to find form in the season so far, recording scores of 18, 2, and 4 in his initial three matches without bowling a single delivery.
Finch pointed out that after a promising start against the Mumbai Indians, where Green scored 18 runs off just 10 balls, his performance has significantly declined. He was unfortunately run out for just 2 runs in the match versus the Sunrisers due to a mix-up with his teammate Angkrish Raghuvanshi, and then he was dismissed for a duck against the Punjab Kings, caught behind by Xavier Bartlett.
Despite the troubling start, Finch believes KKR should not rush to make drastic changes, advising the team to maintain confidence in Green. He noted that one of Green’s dismissals was not his fault, and that he has historically been a dominant player, evidenced by his outstanding performance last year for Mumbai, where he scored 452 runs at an average of 50.22 and a strike rate of 160.28. Finch suggested that the team should either promote Green in the batting order or allow him a break to regain his confidence, as he appears to be lacking the assertiveness he previously displayed.
Green’s overall recent form has raised concerns, particularly following a disappointing Ashes series where he averaged 24.42 and only took four wickets throughout. Finch pointed to broader issues affecting Green’s performance, including KKR’s decision-making, such as opting to bat first in conditions that followed significant rainfall, which left the pitch damp. This choice contributed to a poor start for KKR, with them at 25 for 2 when rain halted play, eventually leading to an abandoned match.
Finch expressed frustration at KKR’s tactics, questioning the rationale behind the decision to bat first amid adverse weather forecasts, suggesting they failed to utilise all available information effectively. The situation emphasises the challenges faced by the team and the need for a strategic approach to support Green in regaining his form.