Last Updated on 4 months ago by Charbel Coorey
Australia all-rounder Cameron Green has come in for significant criticism after his ugly shot gave England an opening in the second Ashes Test at the Gabba.
Green, along with captain Steve Smith, had England wilting in the Brisbane humidity with their 91-run stand putting Australia to within just 43 of England’s first innings total of 334 with seven wickets in hand.
However, Green was displaying signs of ultra aggression, backing away to nearly off the pitch to counter Brydon Carse’s short-pitched barrage. He found runs, but the premeditatory nature of his batting – plus how far he was backing away – meant that any delivery on the stumps would be dangerous.
Carse obliged, pitching the ball right up to the stumps and sealing an embarrassing dismissal on Green’s part. The all-rounder, who started his innings with good intent – especially on the front foot – was out for 45 in an outing that promised so much more.
Cameron Green slammed for horror shot to give England a lifeline
The timing of Green’s dismissal was cause of frustration for fans. Australia were sitting very pretty at 291/3 with England struggling for answers. Ben Stokes looked a forlorn figure at stages, but questionable Australian batting has given England hope.
“There was a period a period where Steve Smith probably should have gone down the other end to Cameron Green and said, ‘mate, just be careful you don’t get too predictable here because you’ll give them a read of what you’re doing, and then they’ll be able to expose you a little bit,” said Damien Fleming on SEN Cricket.
Fans had their say on social media. It’s safe to say many weren’t impressed.
“Cameron Green’s dismissal is impossible to fathom … AUS cruising at 3-291 … 45 not out … and he gifts his wicket in a totally bizarre fashion,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).
“Totally unnecessary, utterly immature. Has handed momentum to the English at a critical point of the match,” wrote another.
Australia took more chances as the evening wore on. Steve Smith was out a few balls later to a stunning catch by Will Jacks at backward square leg. However, England missed a host of other opportunities, most notably off Alex Carey and Michael Neser as the hosts finished day two 378/6 with a lead of 44.
