Kolkata Knight Riders captain Ajinkya Rahane clarified that Cameron Green did not bowl against Gujarat Titans due to fitness concerns, specifically cramps, dismissing any need to consult Cricket Australia. The Australian all-rounder, KKR's costliest buy at INR 11.25 crore, smashed 79 off 55 balls to propel KKR to 180, yet remained wicketless in their fifth defeat. Rahane noted Green was frequently in and out of the field during the GT chase, prioritizing recovery over bowling duties.

Earlier in IPL 2026, Rahane had publicly blamed Cricket Australia for restricting Green's bowling amid a minor lower back niggle, disrupting team balance. Green had resumed limited overs recently, but the GT match marked a relapse with cramps under Ahmedabad's hot conditions. This decision spared him the final over, where GT's Rahul Tewatia sealed a five-wicket win with two balls left.

Green's batting rescue overshadowed KKR's bowling woes, as Gujarat chased efficiently led by Shubman Gill's 86. The all-rounder's season has been under the spotlight, with fans questioning his non-bowling role despite KKR's last-place standing on one point from six games. Rahane's update shifts focus from international management to match-specific fitness.

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No long-term injury fears emerged post-match, with Rahane expressing confidence in Green's imminent return to full all-round duties. KKR's campaign demands balance, as Green's dual threat remains pivotal against table-toppers like Punjab Kings. Earlier tensions with Cricket Australia appear resolved, prioritizing player welfare over tactical needs.

The episode highlights IPL challenges managing overseas stars' workloads amid domestic intensity. Fans await Green's full involvement to spark KKR's revival in the remaining fixtures. With playoffs distant, tactical choices like this underscore captaincy pressures in a winless streak.

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