KOLKATA — The rain that washed out the clash between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Punjab Kings at Eden Gardens on Monday may have saved the home team from a potential collapse, but it couldn’t shield Cameron Green from a storm of criticism. With the 26-year-old Australian yet to bowl this season and managing only 24 runs in three matches, pundits are questioning his place in a side that spent a staggering ₹25.20 crore on his services.
- The Two-Ball Duck: A Costly Struggle
Before the heavens opened, KKR’s decision to bat first looked shaky at 25/2 in 3.4 overs. The focal point of the frustration was Green, who lasted just two deliveries.
The Performance: Green scored just 4 runs before walking back to the hut, continuing a dismal run that has seen him “flatter to deceive” since the season began.
The “Bowler” Gap: While Green has been seen building his workload in the nets, he has yet to be cleared to bowl in a match. This lack of all-round utility has put his No. 3 batting slot under a microscopic lens.
- Pietersen: “He’s Not a Number 3”
Speaking on JioHotstar during the rain break, former England captain Kevin Pietersen was blunt about Green’s technical suitability for the crucial top-order role.
“I’ve not seen enough of Cam Green to warrant batting at 3 here and taking on that responsibility,” Pietersen remarked. “He’s a middle-order batter who bowls a bit. To be in a position of power at 3 in an IPL team, you have to be good enough to perform at that level.”
- The Auction Error? Bangar Calls for Specialists
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar echoed these sentiments, suggesting KKR erred by prioritizing high-priced names over T20 specialists. Bangar argued that with only four overseas slots available, KKR cannot afford to “hope” for a player to come good.
The “Non-Specialist” Label: Bangar grouped Green and Rachin Ravindra as players who are not yet “proven T20 specialists.”
The Powell Solution: Bangar urged the KKR management to look toward Rovman Powell. “You might as well think of Rovman Powell, who is a proven T20 specialist… rather than hoping someone would come good.”
KKR’s Overseas Dilemma: 2026 Season Stats
| Player | Price Tag | Role This Season | Recent Impact |
| Cameron Green | ₹25.20 Cr | Batting Only (No. 3) | 24 runs in 3 matches |
| Rachin Ravindra | High-Value | Top Order | Under Scrutiny |
| Rovman Powell | Specialist | Finisher/Power Hitter | Waiting in the Wings |
The “Lucky” Point at Eden Gardens
While the match was abandoned, the single point moved KKR up the table, a result many feel was fortunate given their precarious start (25/2). However, the “Ajinkya Rahane factor” also drew heat, with veterans like Anil Kumble and R. Ashwin expressing bafflement over recent tactical decisions and personnel choices within the squad.