Cameron Green’s role in the Kolkata Knight Riders lineup has become a major talking point in IPL 2026. The Australian all-rounder has not bowled so far this season and recently batted at No. 3 during KKR’s match against Punjab Kings at Eden Gardens.
After that performance, former England captain Kevin Pietersen and former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar shared strong opinions about how KKR are using the player.
Cameron Green’s Performance Against Punjab Kings
During the IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings on April 6 at Eden Gardens, Cameron Green came in to bat at No. 3.
However, his stay at the crease was very short. He faced only two balls before getting out.
| Match | Venue | Batting Position | Runs | Balls Faced |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KKR vs PBKS | Eden Gardens | No. 3 | 4 | 2 |
The performance increased questions about whether Green is the right option for such a crucial position in the batting order.
Another point being discussed is that Green has not bowled in any IPL 2026 match so far.
Kevin Pietersen’s Opinion on Green’s Role
Kevin Pietersen said that a player’s price tag should not decide where he bats in the lineup. According to him, a player must be capable enough to handle a top-order role in a tournament like the IPL.
Pietersen explained that he is not convinced Cameron Green has shown enough in the format to justify batting at No. 3.
He pointed out that Green is not bowling this season, which reduces his overall impact on the game.
Pietersen also mentioned that although Green scored a century for Mumbai Indians a few years ago, he has not seen consistent performances that support placing him so high in the order.
In Pietersen’s view, Green looks more like a middle-order batter who bowls occasionally rather than a complete all-rounder who can influence the game in multiple ways.
Sanjay Bangar Says Green Is Acting as “Just a Batter”
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar also questioned KKR’s strategy with Cameron Green.
Bangar said that since Green is not bowling, he is effectively functioning as only a batter in the team.
In fast-paced T20 cricket, Bangar believes this may not be enough for a player occupying an overseas slot.
He added that teams usually use overseas spots for players who bring a clear and proven skill set in the format.
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Bangar Suggests Different Overseas Strategy
Bangar believes KKR should carefully choose overseas players who have a strong T20 record and defined roles.
He mentioned Rovman Powell as an example of a specialist player who fits well into a T20 team.
Powell has experience playing specific roles such as power hitting in the middle order, which can make a strong impact in short-format cricket.
Bangar also said that players who are still adjusting to the T20 format may not be the best option for limited overseas spots.
Overseas Player Strategy in IPL
Every IPL team can include only four overseas players in the playing XI. Because of this limit, teams usually select players who bring strong and reliable performances.
| Factor | Importance in IPL |
|---|---|
| Overseas slots | Only four allowed in playing XI |
| Player role clarity | Very important in T20 format |
| Specialist skills | Teams prefer proven performers |
This is why Bangar believes teams should focus on specialists who can consistently deliver in important moments.
The discussion around Cameron Green highlights a larger issue for Kolkata Knight Riders. The team must balance its playing XI and ensure every overseas player contributes strongly.
Pietersen questioned whether Green is ready for a top-order role, while Bangar focused on selecting proven T20 specialists.
If Green continues without bowling and struggles with batting in a key position, KKR may need to rethink their overseas player strategy during the season.
Fans will be watching closely to see whether the team changes Green’s role or adjusts the lineup as IPL 2026 progresses.
