When Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) play Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Thursday at their home Eden Gardens, Cameron Green is expected to start bowling. Green didn't bowl at all in KKR's first two IPL 2026 games, against Mumbai Indians (MI) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), both of which KKR lost, before their third game, against Punjab Kings (PBKS) was washed out after 3.4 overs. KKR had been informed by Cricket Australia that Green would start IPL 2026 as a specialist batter. "Cameron has a lower-back injury, which is being managed, but requires him to abstain from bowling for a short period," CA had said on March 30. "Cameron is currently rebuilding his bowling loads in India with a view to return in around 10-12 days' time." Green not bowling has affected KKR's plans, especially with a number of their main bowlers sidelined for one reason or another. Prior to the start of the tournament, the BCCI had instructed Mustafizur Rahman to be dropped from the team, and shortly before that, injuries sidelined Harshit Rana and Akash Deep. In addition, KKR's previous game was without Sunil Narine due to illness, and Varun Chakravarthy was also out with a hand injury. Green was acquired by KKR at the most recent auction for a record sum of INR 25.20 crore, the highest price for an overseas player ever at an IPL auction. However, he was only going to be paid a capped salary of INR 18 crore in accordance with IPL regulations. In addition, Green's form with the bat has been inconsistent, raising questions about his position in the team. Green has so far scored 18, 2 and 4 in his three innings. "One of those firings was a run-in against SRH, and it was not his fault. However, he has been left out twice. There's a bit of panic, he's not looking the same as the past," Aaron Finch said of his countrymate on ESPNcricinfo's TimeOut on Tuesday. "Remember when he was at the top of the order for MI - how he had a totally different intent. He stood tall at the crease. Now he looks tentative. Do not lower him. Push him either up the order, or give him a rest." Green has so far batted at No. 3 (twice) and No. 4 (once).