Cricket Australia’s workload management calls on Cooper Connolly and Cameron Green highlight growing tensions with IPL teams over player fitness and availability.
In a continuing tug-of-war between Cricket Australia and the IPL franchises, young all-rounder Cooper Connolly has been instructed to play purely as a batter for the initial phase of the tournament.
As per reports, Connolly is expected to step into Josh Inglis’ role and could bat at No. 3 despite struggling for consistency in recent outings. However, due to a back issue, he has been advised by Cricket Australia’s medical team to avoid bowling his left-arm spin until the end of April.
Lean Form and Opportunity with Punjab Kings
Connolly’s recent performances have been a mixed bag. After starting the Big Bash League strongly with back-to-back half-centuries, he managed to reach double figures only three times in his next 15 T20 innings, with a highest score of 28 across multiple assignments including the BBL, Australia’s tour of Pakistan, and the T20 World Cup.
Despite this dip in form, he is set to feature for Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer. The team will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Gujarat Titans, captained by Shubman Gill, in New Chandigarh on March 31.
Cameron Green Situation Adds to the Tension
The development comes amid fresh debate surrounding Cameron Green’s limited role for Kolkata Knight Riders. Questions were raised after Green did not bowl in their match against Mumbai Indians.
KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane addressed the issue briefly, stating “ask Cricket Australia”, which sparked a minor controversy regarding Green’s fitness and availability.
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Cricket Australia later clarified that KKR had been fully informed about Green’s injury status. The all-rounder had previously undergone surgery for a stress fracture in his back and did not bowl for nearly a year between September 2024 and October 2025. Even after his return, his bowling workload has remained minimal, further underlining the board’s cautious approach.
With both Connolly and Green being managed conservatively, the situation reflects an ongoing friction between national boards and IPL franchises over player workload and long-term fitness.
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