Finch Questions Cameron Green’s Form, Urges KKR to Rethink Strategy

Former Australia captain Aaron Finch has raised concerns over Cameron Green’s underwhelming start to IPL 2026, suggesting that the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) allrounder appears “tentative” and lacking the confidence that once defined his batting.

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut programme, Finch pointed out that Green has struggled to make an impact in his first three outings this season. Despite being bought for a record INR 25.20 crore—making him the most expensive overseas player in IPL auction history—Green has failed to convert his starts into meaningful contributions.

The 26-year-old began his campaign with a quick 18 off 10 balls against Mumbai Indians, followed by a run-out for 2 against Sunrisers Hyderabad. His latest outing against Punjab Kings ended quickly as he was dismissed for a duck, caught behind off Xavier Bartlett in a rain-affected match.

“There’s a bit of panic, he’s not looking the same as before,” Finch observed. “He was imposing at the crease earlier, especially during his time at Mumbai Indians, but now he looks unsure.”

Finch referenced Green’s standout 2023 season, where he scored 452 runs in 16 innings at a strike rate above 160 while batting at No. 3. In contrast, his current performances have lacked the same authority and intent.

The former opener also advised KKR against demoting Green in the batting order. “Don’t push him down. Either promote him up the order or consider giving him a break,” Finch suggested, highlighting inconsistency in Green’s batting positions this season.

Beyond individual performances, Finch was critical of KKR’s tactical decisions—particularly their choice to bat first in a rain-hit fixture at Eden Gardens. With the pitch covered for extended periods and moisture aiding seam movement, Finch felt the decision backfired.

“Batting first in those conditions makes no sense,” he said. “There was cloud cover, rain around, and the pitch had been under covers. All indicators suggested bowling first, especially with DLS potentially coming into play.”

KKR will look to regroup quickly as they prepare to face Lucknow Super Giants on April 9 in Kolkata, hoping both their strategy and their marquee signing can turn things around.