Cameron Green’s journey back to full fitness has been one of patience, resilience, and a little help from unexpected friends, including Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. Ahead of his major back surgery in October 2024, Green received a heartfelt message from Bumrah, a gesture that left a lasting impression on the young Australian all-rounder.

The two had shared the Mumbai Indians dressing room during IPL 2023, and Bumrah, who has battled his share of back injuries, understood exactly what Green was going through. Despite being in the middle of a Test match in India at the time, Bumrah took a moment to reach out, offering encouragement and reminding Green that successful comebacks are possible.

“That message really lifted my spirits,” Cameron Green told ESPNcricinfo. “To have someone like him reach out, and then to watch how well he performed post-surgery — it gave me a lot of belief.”

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Green opted for surgery rather than the longer natural healing route, which could have sidelined him for up to a year. The move saw him miss Australia’s home summer, but it seems to be paying off. Though back injuries have plagued his young career, this being the fourth, Green is using the experience to recalibrate his role.

Now focused on batting for the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s starting June 11, Green says the silver lining in these setbacks has been the opportunity to grow as a specialist batter. His County Championship stint with Gloucestershire yielded three centuries, showcasing his form.

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“Bowling and batting can be draining. When you’re doing both, it’s tough to maintain peak condition. Just batting allows me to focus more and enjoy the game,” he said. Though committed to returning as a full all-rounder, for now, Green is relishing the clarity that comes with playing just one role.