Cameron Green has delivered a timely and compelling statement ahead of the Ashes, showcasing his readiness with a significant all-round contribution in Western Australia’s Sheffield Shield clash against Queensland.
In what was his final first-class outing before the Test series against England begins next week, Green demonstrated both his batting class and bowling fitness. He fell just short of a century, compiling a patient 94 from 172 balls against a formidable Queensland attack, spending nearly the entire day at the crease. His innings was a reminder of his capability in the top order, a role he has occupied for the national side earlier this year.
Perhaps more critically, Green bowled a combined 16 overs across the match without issue, clearing a significant hurdle. National selectors had indicated a desire to see him bowl between 15 to 20 overs to prove his recovery from a recent side strain. By meeting that workload, he has strongly positioned himself for selection as the side’s primary all-rounder for the first Test in Perth.
The match also featured other players with Ashes ambitions. Queensland’s Matt Renshaw backed up his first-innings century with a gritty 51 in the second, despite managing a knee issue. For Western Australia, off-spinner Corey Rocchiccioli sparked a fightback on day three, claiming four wickets to keep the contest alive.
With just one day of the Shield round remaining, it represents the last opportunity for players to influence the selection debate before the Australian XI is finalized. The deliberations have been complicated by injury concerns within the pace-bowling ranks, potentially opening the door for an additional all-round option to provide cover.
The performance in Perth will be a welcome sight for selectors, coming after a series of fitness scares involving key bowlers from both camps in recent days. As the countdown to the first Test intensifies, Green’s robust showing has provided a clear and positive answer to one of the major questions surrounding the Australian lineup.