Former Australian Test batter Will Pucovski has launched a strong defence of under-fire all-rounder Cameron Green, labelling the criticism directed at the young star as "incredibly harsh and unfair." Green has managed only 118 runs across the first four Tests of the ongoing Ashes series against England, a lean patch that has attracted significant scrutiny from fans and pundits alike.
Pucovski's Statistical Defence for Green
Speaking on 7Cricket, Pucovski urged for perspective, placing Green's recent form in a broader context. He pointed to a compelling comparison with England's Ben Stokes, whom he called the "gold standard for fast bowling all-rounders." After 28 Test matches, Green's batting average is slightly better than Stokes' was at the same stage, while his bowling average is only marginally worse. Pucovski acknowledged that Green has now played 36 Tests, making the direct comparison imperfect, but used it to highlight Green's underlying potential.
Contextualising the Recent Struggles
Pucovski meticulously analysed Green's last eight Test matches to explain the dip in numbers. He mentioned the World Test Championship final where Green failed in tough conditions, followed by a three-Test series in the West Indies where he was thrust into the unfamiliar No. 3 batting position. "Those pitches were bloody tough work," Pucovski stated, noting that most top-order batsmen in that series averaged around 10. In that context, Green averaging roughly 30 was a "massive tick."
He then addressed the current Ashes, highlighting that two of the four Tests were played on poor-quality pitches in Melbourne and Adelaide that ended within two days. "Yes, he missed out... but he got 45 and looked quite good in Brisbane. I actually thought he was quite good in Melbourne," Pucovski argued, praising Green's technical movements in challenging conditions.
The Core Argument: Age and Talent
At the heart of Pucovski's defence is Green's age and development curve. The 26-year-old is still learning his craft at the highest level. "He's 26 years old. He's learning. He is a mega talent," Pucovski emphasised, repeating this sentiment to drive home his belief that Green deserves patience and support rather than harsh judgement based on a short, difficult period.
Cameron Green will next be in action for Australia in the fifth and final Ashes Test in Sydney, starting January 3, 2026. Following the Ashes, his packed schedule includes the T20 World Cup and then the Indian Premier League, where he will represent the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2026 season.
