Mon Oct 14 00:20:43 UTC 2024: ## Cameron Green Undergoes Back Surgery, Ruling Him Out For the Summer
Australian allrounder Cameron Green will miss the upcoming summer of cricket after undergoing surgery on his back. Scans revealed a “unique defect” in addition to a stress fracture, prompting Green to opt for surgery over rehabilitation. The operation, performed by leading surgeons in Christchurch, involved inserting screws and titanium wire to stabilize the vertebrae.
Green is expected to be sidelined for six months, ruling him out of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test series against India, the Test tour of Sri Lanka, the ICC Champions Trophy, and potentially the next Indian Premier League season.
The surgery, while necessary to address the injury and prevent future complications, comes at a significant cost to Australia’s cricket team. Green’s absence from the No. 4 batting position could see Steve Smith return to his traditional role. The team will also need to find alternative bowling options, with incumbent No. 6 Mitch Marsh having recently shied away from bowling duties.
The injury marks the first major setback for the 24-year-old allrounder, who has experienced multiple back stress fractures as a teenager but has otherwise enjoyed a successful career, becoming a key player across all formats. Green’s long-term commitment to all-round cricket has been underscored by this decision, with him previously indicating a possible transition to specialist batting only in the distant future.
Cricket Australia is expected to announce an Australia A squad today, potentially featuring Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft, and teenage star Sam Konstas. The team will be looking for a new opener to replace Green’s versatile presence in the squad.
First Piper 