Is Cameron Green playing in the first Test? Australian all-rounder dealing with finger injury ahead of India tour

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Cameron Green
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The Australian cricket team is dealing with a number of injuries ahead of their tour of India.

Fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has already been ruled out for the first Test in Nagpur, with all-rounder Cameron Green also a doubt for the clash.

The Sporting News takes a look at the 23-year-old's status ahead of the opener.

MORE: 'The ICC should step in' - Australian greats question Nagpur pitch

Is Cameron Green fit enough for the first Test?

As it stands, Green is unlikely to feature in the first Test between Australia and India.

Whilst there was hope the all-rounder would be able to bat (but not bowl) in the series opener, it appears he will be omitted from the starting XI altogether.

Green has been dealing with an injured finger after fracturing it during December's Boxing Day Test, before most recently jarring it while batting at Australia's training camp in Bengaluru.

He also had pins inserted in his fingers via surgery just five weeks ago, so a cautious approach to his recovery is being taken.

Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Australia's vice-captain Steve Smith shared it is unlikely Green will be ready in time for the first match.

"I don't think he is [going to play]," Smith said.

"I don't think he's even faced fast bowlers yet. So I dare say he won't be playing, but who knows.

"I'm not entirely sure. We'll wait and see.

"But it's unlikely, I think."

Who will replace Cameron Green?

Green has proved to be a valuable asset for the Australian Test side in recent years, thanks to his all-rounder skills.

Therefore, his potential absence leaves selectors with a difficult decision.

MORE: Who will replace Josh Hazlewood for first Test?

Matt Renshaw replaced Green for the New Year's Test against South Africa and has good batting credentials.

Peter Handscomb is also in the mix and would slot in comfortably in the middle order. He would provide cover at the wicketkeeper position, in the rare case that is needed.

Assuming Australia select either Renshaw or Handscomb, that would leave them with four bowlers for the first Test.

MORE: India vs Australia: Confirmed squads, predicted lineups

India vs. Australia: When is the first Test? 

The first Test between India and Australia will begin on Thursday, February 9th and conclude on Monday, January 13th at VCA Stadium in Nagpur. 

Each day will begin at 3pm AEDT and 9.30am IST. 

How to watch or live stream India vs Australia

Fox Cricket will broadcast each game live and exclusive in Australia, while Star Sports holds the rights to the series in India. 

  Australia India
TV Channel Fox Cricket Star Sports
Live Stream Foxtel Go/Kayo Sports Disney+ Hotstar
Author(s)
Joshua Mayne Photo

Joshua Mayne is a content producer for The Sporting News Australia.