Cameron Green Out of India Tests: What It Means for RCB’s IPL 2025 Retention Plans

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Australia’s preparations for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy have taken a hit with star all-rounder Cameron Green ruled out for at least six months. The 25-year-old has opted for surgery to address a recurring stress fracture in his back, making him unavailable for the Test series against India, the Sri Lanka tour, and the Champions Trophy in early 2025.

Green sustained the back injury during the third ODI against England last month, leaving Australia’s plans in disarray. Cricket Australia (CA) described the issue as “a unique defect in an adjacent area to the original fracture,” causing significant discomfort. Green, having dealt with back problems in the past, decided surgery was the best option to secure his long-term future as an all-rounder.

A Blow to Australia’s Test Setup

Green’s absence forces Australia to make key adjustments in their Test lineup. Without his services, Mitchell Marsh will likely step in as a fifth bowling option, although he didn’t bowl in Western Australia’s Sheffield Shield opener. Marcus Stoinis, meanwhile, has been recalled for the ODI series, with selectors also considering batting combinations.

Steve Smith could reclaim his No. 4 position, while Australia explores potential openers. Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft are part of the Australia A squad for two four-day matches against India A, set to take place in late October and early November. These matches could help Australia finalize replacements for Green ahead of the Test series.

RCB’s Dilemma with Cameron Green’s IPL Future

Cameron Green’s six-month absence leaves his participation in IPL 2025 in doubt, making Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) retention strategy a tricky affair. If Green returns by late March, RCB might still take a calculated risk and retain him, keeping long-term goals in mind to make him a key part of the squad.

However, if RCB decides not to gamble on the Australian all-rounder, they can focus on other core players. Will Jacks, Yash Dayal, Mohammad Siraj, Glenn Maxwell, and possibly even veteran Faf du Plessis are potential retention options. With Virat Kohli’s retention already a certainty, the franchise will have to carefully assess its strategy before the October 31 deadline for player retentions.

Read Original Content: Cameron Green Out of India Tests: What It Means for RCB’s IPL 2025 Retention Plans

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