Sports Pundit
Cricket

Langer Confirms Green Will Debut in 1st Test if Fit

Cameron Green (C) of Australia celebrates after taking the wicket of Shubman Gill of India during a tour match between Australia A and India at the SCG in Sydney
Cameron Green (C) of Australia celebrates after taking the wicket of Shubman Gill of India during a tour match between Australia A and India at the SCG in Sydney

Australia will blood youngster Cameron Green for a debut pending his availability after concussion in the First Test against India starting on Thursday in Adelaide.

Australia coach Justin Langer confirmed the news at a media conference on Tuesday morning, following lengthy speculation about the make-up of the XI with injuries and form issues creating numerous headaches.

Both David Warner and in-form youngster Will Pucovski had been ruled out due to groin and concussion issues, while opener Joe Burns’s form has been poor, following 74 runs in his past 10 innings.

The situation has opened the door for 21-year-old West Australian all-rounder Green, who has made three first class centuries this season to mount a compelling case for selection which Langer said has proved convincing.

However, he also suffered a concussion on Friday in the Australia A game against India A when struck in the side of his head attempting to field a straight drive off his own bowling, meaning he’ll need to be cleared medically to play.

“If he’s passed fit he’ll definitely play,” Langer said. “We’re just going through the concussion protocols.

“We all saw, it was a very unusual incident that happened with him.

“If Cameron gets through the protocols and he gets through training and he feels good, I’ve seen him last night, he had a big smile on his face, he had another test this morning that we got good news.

“He’s a terrific young bloke, he’s obviously an excellent talent, he’s earned the right for selection through his performances through Sheffield Shield cricket.

“If he’s fit and available then he’ll make his Test debut, which is very, very exciting for Australian cricket, for him and his family.”

Langer declined to clarify if Burns will be backed to open despite his poor form, with Marcus Harris added to the squad and in line to replace him.

Burns has four Test centuries to his name, while Harris has never reached triple figures at this level in nine Tests.