McDonald backs Green for long-term Test role despite Ashes struggles

Cameron Green has received strong backing from Australia head coach Andrew McDonald, who indicated the allrounder is likely to remain part of the Test setup despite a difficult Ashes series.

Green endured a lean campaign against England, averaging 24.42 with the bat and 70.75 with the ball, raising questions about his place in the side. However, McDonald made it clear that the team management continues to see him as a key long-term option.

“We know he’s good enough,” McDonald said, pointing to Green’s strong domestic record. The allrounder averages over 50 in the Sheffield Shield and recently marked his return to form with a century for Western Australia.

With Usman Khawaja retiring and leaving a vacancy in the batting order, Australia are exploring combinations that could include both Green and fellow allrounder Beau Webster in the same XI. McDonald highlighted that such a setup would offer valuable balance and flexibility.

Green has played 37 Tests since debuting in 2020, averaging 32.75 with two centuries. While his bowling returns have been modest, they have been impacted by a long injury layoff following back surgery in 2024.

The coach also acknowledged the challenges Green faces as a three-format player, dealing with high expectations both internationally and in franchise cricket. Comparisons were drawn to past Australian allrounders such as Mitchell Marsh and Shane Watson, who also took time to establish themselves at the highest level.

McDonald stressed that expectations around allrounders can be unrealistic, noting that few players consistently deliver elite performances with both bat and ball.

Australia’s next Test assignments begin in August, and while competition for places remains strong, Green appears set to be given an extended run to cement his role.

For now, the message from team management is clear: patience remains, and belief in Green’s potential is unwavering.