bharat sundaresan

Is Cameron Green’s Test Spot at Risk? The $4 Million Dilemma Shaking Australian Cricket

Australian cricket fans are buzzing with a pressing question: Should Cameron Green, the country’s most expensive IPL player, retain his place in the Test team? Despite his $4 million price tag in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Green’s recent performances have sparked debate about his long-term role in the Baggy Green. With calls mounting for a return of a seasoned seven-Test veteran, the pressure is building on selectors to make a tough call.

This isn’t just about one player—it’s about the balance between youth and experience, short-term rewards and long-term strategy, and how Australia rebuilds after a transitional Ashes series. Here’s what you need to know about the unfolding drama.

Recent Updates: The Heat Is On Cameron Green

The spotlight on Cameron Green intensified in late December 2024, following a series of underwhelming performances during Australia’s Ashes campaign in England. While the series ended in a 2-2 draw, Green’s contributions with both bat and ball raised eyebrows.

Key Developments (Late 2024–Early 2025)

• December 17, 2024: The Sydney Morning Herald questioned whether Green’s $4 million IPL valuation justified his place in the Test XI, noting his modest returns:

  “Green might be worth $4m in the IPL, but should he be in the Test team? His batting average in Tests sits below 30, and his bowling has lacked consistency.”
  (SMH, 2024)

• December 18, 2024: Yahoo News Australia reported growing calls for the return of a seven-Test player, believed to be Usman Khawaja or even a surprise recall for Peter Handscomb, to shore up the middle order.

  “With the World Test Championship final looming, some believe Australia needs proven performers, not potential.”
  (Yahoo News AU, 2024)

• December 18, 2024: SEN offered a slightly more optimistic take, quoting sources close to the team:

  “Green’s position isn’t in jeopardy… yet. The selectors are backing him, but there’s no denying the scrutiny.”
  (SEN, 2024)

Despite the mixed messaging, the consensus is clear: Green is under pressure. With the World Test Championship (WTC) final approaching and Australia’s next Test tour to India in 2025, selectors face a critical decision.

Who Is Bharat Sundaresan, and Why Is He Trending?

You might be wondering: Who is Bharat Sundaresan, and why is his name suddenly tied to this debate?

While not a player, Bharat Sundaresan is a prominent cricket journalist and commentator, known for his incisive analysis and deep connections in the cricketing world. He’s a senior writer for ESPNcricinfo and a regular voice on SEN, where he’s been vocal about Australia’s selection dilemmas, particularly around Green.

Sundaresan’s recent commentary—though not directly cited in the verified reports—has resonated with fans and experts alike. He’s argued that while Green is a long-term investment, Australia can’t afford to carry underperforming players in high-stakes Tests. His take?

“Green has the talent, but talent alone doesn’t win Test matches. You need runs, wickets, and match-winning performances—especially in India.”

His insights, combined with the 2,000+ buzz volume around his name, reflect a broader conversation: Is Australia prioritizing potential over results?

Contextual Background: The Rise and Scrutiny of Cameron Green

Cameron Green burst onto the Test scene in 2020, hailed as the next all-rounder in the line of Mitchell Johnson, Shane Watson, and even Jacques Kallis. At just 25, he’s already played 28 Tests, scoring 1,300+ runs and taking 45 wickets. But the numbers tell only part of the story.

The Green Promise

• Batting: Green is a right-handed middle-order batter with a solid technique and aggressive intent. He’s capable of quick scoring, as seen in his 84 off 91 balls against India in 2023.
• Bowling: A right-arm fast-medium bowler, Green averages 32 with the ball in Tests. While not a strike bowler, he’s valued for his control and ability to break partnerships.
• IPL Success: In 2024, he was bought by Royal Challengers Bangalore for $4 million, the highest bid for an Australian all-rounder in IPL history. His T20 performances—especially his economy rate and death bowling—were key to his valuation.

The Test Struggle

Despite his IPL success, Green’s Test returns have plateaued: - Batting Average: 29.8 in Tests (compared to 38.5 in First-Class cricket). - Wicket Impact: Only 12 wickets in his last 10 Tests, with a strike rate of 78—well above the ideal for an all-rounder. - Consistency: He’s scored just two 50+ scores in his last 15 innings, with three ducks.

The Precedent: When All-Rounders Are Dropped

Australia has a history of dropping all-rounders when they fail to deliver: - Moises Henriques was dropped after 5 Tests despite decent returns. - James Faulkner lost his spot after inconsistent performances. - Marcus Stoinis was in and out of the team for years before cementing his place.

The lesson? All-rounders must contribute in both departments. Green’s current imbalance—strong batting, weak bowling—is a red flag.

Immediate Effects: What’s at Stake for Australian Cricket?

The debate over Green isn’t just about one player—it’s about Australia’s Test strategy and long-term vision.

1. World Test Championship (WTC) Final

Australia is on track to qualify for the WTC final in 2025, likely against South Africa or India. A loss could mean missing out on a $1.6 million prize and falling behind in the ICC rankings.

With Green underperforming, selectors may opt for a more reliable batter—like Travis Head, Cameron Bancroft, or even a returning Usman Khawaja—to strengthen the middle order.

2. India Tour (2025)

Australia’s next Test series is in India (February–March 2025), where spin and batting depth are crucial. Green’s struggles against spin (he averages 24 vs spin in Tests) could be exploited by India’s Ashwin, Jadeja, and Kuldeep.

If Green is dropped, it could open the door for a specialist spinner (like Todd Murphy) or a batting all-rounder (like Beau Webster).

3. IPL vs Test Balance

Green’s $4 million IPL contract has raised questions about player priorities. Is he focusing more on T20 leagues than Test development? While he’s denied this, his lack of red-ball cricket in 2024 (only 3 Sheffield Shield games) is a concern.

**4. Fan and Media