“His bat is not scoring even a single run” - Aakash Chopra lists out concerns for KKR ahead of IPL 2026

Former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has voiced his opinion on Australian all-rounder Cameron Green’s form in the ongoing ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Notably, Green has been acquired by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) franchise at the IPL 2026 Auction for a whopping INR 25.2 Crore. 

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However, the all-rounder could score a total of 24 runs from three games in the ongoing showpiece event, scalping one wicket with the ball. Moreover, the franchise has been facing several issues in its pace bowling department.

"The one you gave ₹25 crore, his bat is not scoring even a single run. Cameron Green is looking absolutely cold. If he becomes a non-performing asset, Kolkata would be wondering what would happen to them, given there is already a problem in fast bowling," Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

Unfortunately, Sri Lankan pacer Matheesha Pathirana injured his hamstring during the game against Australia on Monday, February 16, in Pallekele. Interestingly, Pathirana was acquired by the KKR franchise for INR 18 Crore. Moreover, they had removed Mustafizur Rahman from their side after the BCCI instructed them to do so.

"As soon as Pathirana touched his hamstring, I heard ouch from the Eden Gardens. I have heard that Harshit Rana won't be available. If Harshit Rana isn't available for the IPL, Mustafizur Rahman isn't available, and Pathirana isn't available, who will bowl?" he noted.

Nevertheless, Chopra was quick to list down a few unsold pacers from India and overseas, who can join the KKR camp as replacements for Mustafizur Rahman and Matheesha Pathirana ahead of the IPL 2026 season.

"I have got a list regarding what can happen in this team. Spencer Johnson, who used to be there in this team, Richard Gleeson, Jhye Richardson, Sean Abbott, Nathan Smith, maybe Gus Atkinson or Gerald Coetzee if he gets fit. I know what you are thinking. There is no one among them of Pathirana and Fizz's quality," he said.

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"This is where they are right now. They don't have the option of very good bowlers. In Indian bowling options, it could be Akash Madhwal, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Raj Limbani or Money Grewal, but that's about it. There is no availability," he concluded.

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