Ashwin Proposes Pay Cut Rule Amid Uncertainty Over Cameron Green’s IPL 2026 Role with Kolkata Knight Riders

Mumbai: Australia all-rounder Cameron Green emerged as the most expensive signing at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, with three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders securing his services for a staggering INR 25.20 crore. However, with the tournament set to begin on March 28, uncertainty looms over how the franchise will utilise the 26-year-old, particularly with regard to his bowling.

Green, who recently arrived in Kolkata, is returning from a serious back injury that had threatened his career. Since his comeback, he has bowled sparingly for Australia across formats, raising concerns about whether he will be able to deliver a full quota of overs in the IPL. Given his hefty price tag, expectations are high for him to step into the all-rounder role previously filled by Andre Russell, who has retired from the league.

Amid the uncertainty, veteran India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has put forward a bold suggestion. Speaking on his YouTube channel ‘Ash Ki Baat’, Ashwin questioned whether Cricket Australia would permit Green to bowl his full quota of four overs in every match.

Ashwin highlighted the growing conflict between international workload management and franchise expectations. He argued that IPL teams invest in players with clearly defined roles, and last-minute restrictions imposed by national boards can disrupt team strategies.

Offering a potential solution, Ashwin suggested that franchises should have the authority to reduce a player’s contract value if they are unable to fulfil their expected role. “If a player can bowl only two overs instead of four, the franchise should be able to deduct a portion of the contract fee,” he said, adding that such clauses would ensure accountability and fairness for teams.

He further emphasised that franchises, especially those making high-value investments, should not be left at a disadvantage. Referring to KKR’s significant outlay, Ashwin remarked that it would be difficult for team management led by owner Shah Rukh Khan to accept a scenario where a marquee player is unable to deliver fully on expectations.

Ashwin also noted that KKR’s immediate challenge would be to maximise Green’s potential despite his recent dip in form and fitness concerns. “If I were KKR, I would focus on how to get the best out of him. He needs to step up, especially given his recent performances,” he added.

The IPL 2026 season will kick off with a clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28. KKR will begin their campaign against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on March 29.

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