Cameron Green set for key role in Bangladesh Tests

All-rounder Cameron Green is set to take on a crucial role in Australia's batting order for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh. Head coach and selector Andrew McDonald is considering Green as the most likely candidate for the number five position in the Australia XI for the two-match series starting in Darwin on August 13.

Green is the only cricketer under 30 in Australia's 13-member squad. Since his Test debut in 2020, he has played 37 matches. The all-rounder has batted at various positions from three to seven in his career. However, his primary responsibility in the Bangladesh series will be to strengthen Australia's middle order.

Despite not performing up to expectations in the recent T20 World Cup or the IPL, McDonald has no doubts about Green's ability in red-ball cricket. Recalling Green's brilliant century in Sydney last March, the Australia coach said Green is a cricketer of extraordinary ability. His performances have often been judged without proper context. Even in difficult batting conditions, he has contributed as importantly as the top seven batters.

Explaining Green's frequent batting position changes, McDonald said he has batted almost everywhere from three to seven. The changes in batting position have primarily come based on his form at the time and the team's combination needs.

Although Green is an all-rounder, the Australian team management sees him primarily as a batter for the first XI. While his bowling is considered an added advantage, his batting remains the primary consideration.

McDonald said an all-rounder in the top six or seven's primary job is to score runs. Bowling is an additional weapon there that helps enhance the team's overall capability. While having additional bowling options is reassuring, Australia's main goal in forming the best XI for the Tests in Bangladesh will be to put enough runs on the scoreboard.

So while Green's all-round ability will give Australia an added advantage before the first Test in Darwin, how solid his place in the XI will be depends largely on how effective he can be with the bat.