Can Australia Coach McDonald Depend on Green for WTC Final?
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Synopsis
Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald has given a strong endorsement to Cameron Green for the WTC final against South Africa, despite his inability to bowl. As the team reshuffles its batting order, Green's return is poised to impact the Australians significantly. Discover how his performance may shape the match at Lord's!
Key Takeaways
- Cameron Green is likely to play as a specialist batsman in the WTC final.
- His return could significantly alter the Australian batting order.
- Selectors are considering multiple options for the final XI.
- Travis Head may revert to No. 5, affecting Usman Khawaja's opening position.
- Beau Webster's place is uncertain as selectors weigh bowling needs.
New Delhi, May 27 (NationPress) Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald has thrown his support behind the impressive Cameron Green for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord's.
The 25-year-old may not be able to bowl in the WTC final, but he is highly likely to rejoin the Australian lineup as a specialist batsman. His return is anticipated to significantly alter the batting order, with selectors contemplating various options. Players like Marnus Labuschagne, Sam Konstas, Beau Webster, and Josh Inglis are still in the mix, depending on the finalized XI.
Green's last appearance in Test cricket was in March 2024, where he batted at No. 4 during a two-match series against New Zealand, achieving a career-best score of 174 not out in Wellington. Recently, he excelled at No. 5 for Gloucestershire, accumulating three centuries and an unbeaten 67 runs across eight innings—his first matches after undergoing back surgery in October.
"He could bat at three, five, six, or even open. I believe he possesses the right temperament and skill set. His defensive play is crucial, particularly when batting higher in the order. He's got all bases covered," McDonald stated on SEN Radio.
Green's comeback and batting position are set to create a ripple effect in the Australian batting lineup. Travis Head is expected to revert to his usual No. 5 position after temporarily opening during the series in Sri Lanka. This change means Usman Khawaja will need a new opening partner, having already rotated through Steve Smith, Head, Sam Konstas, and Nathan McSweeney in Australia’s previous three Test series.
While Webster performed admirably as an allrounder at No. 6 during his debut against India in Sydney and showed solid form in Sri Lanka, McDonald has made it clear that his spot in the XI for the WTC final at Lord's is not guaranteed. The selectors are still deliberating whether an additional fifth bowler is necessary for the one-off final.
"There’s a lineup on the board, but it has some dashes with various names in different spots. Do we need to include the allrounder based on the conditions? That will shuffle the batting order. We are quite flexible in our approach," McDonald commented.
"We have a rough idea of what the lineup might look like. As we approach the decisive moments, we will make informed decisions, as we have stated before."
Point of View
It's clear that Cameron Green's return to the Australian cricket team is a pivotal moment. His ability to adapt to various batting positions showcases the team's tactical flexibility. As they face South Africa in the World Test Championship final, the emphasis will be on strategic decisions and the depth of talent within the squad, ensuring a competitive edge.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cameron Green fit to play in the WTC final?
Yes, Cameron Green is fit to play as a specialist batsman in the WTC final, although he won't be bowling.
What impact will Green's return have on the batting order?
Green's return is expected to cause significant shifts in the batting order, potentially moving Travis Head back to No. 5 and affecting Usman Khawaja's opening partnership.
Who are the potential candidates for Australia's batting lineup?
Candidates include Marnus Labuschagne, Sam Konstas, Beau Webster, and Josh Inglis, all of whom are being considered for the final XI.
What is the current status of Beau Webster in the team?
While Beau Webster performed well as an allrounder, his place in the final XI is not guaranteed as selectors consider the need for an additional bowler.
How has Cameron Green performed recently?
Recently, Green has demonstrated excellent form with three centuries and an unbeaten 67 runs in eight innings while playing for Gloucestershire.
