KKR suffered a disappointing defeat despite posting a formidable total of 220. The match turned into a high-scoring affair, reflecting the batting-friendly nature of the Wankhede pitch — the same venue that witnessed nearly 500 runs during the T20 World Cup 2026 semifinal between India and England earlier this month.
After the loss, Rahane pointed to the team’s inexperienced bowling attack and the challenging pitch conditions as key factors behind the defeat. He also highlighted the impact of Green’s absence as a bowling option, suggesting it disrupted the team’s overall balance.
“I think when hopefully Green starts to bowl soon, the combination will be slightly different,” Rahane said during the post-match presentation. “At the moment, we have to figure out the right balance in our bowling unit. Batting-wise, we performed well, but getting that bowling combination right is crucial.”
When pressed further on why Green wasn’t used as a bowler, Rahane responded bluntly, “That question you need to ask Cricket Australia,” a remark that momentarily left commentators Ravi Shastri and Kevin Pietersen taken aback.
In response, Cricket Australia clarified that the 26-year-old allrounder is currently dealing with a lower back injury. According to a CA spokesperson, Green has been advised to refrain from bowling temporarily as part of his recovery and workload management.
“Cameron has a lower back injury which is being managed but requires him to abstain from bowling for a short period,” the spokesperson said. “He is currently rebuilding his bowling loads in India and is expected to return to bowling in approximately 10–12 days. KKR has been fully informed about his condition.”
Green, who was the most expensive signing of the IPL 2026 auction at INR 25.20 crore, contributed with the bat, scoring a quick 18 off 10 balls at number three. However, his absence with the ball proved costly as Mumbai Indians’ batters dominated the KKR bowling lineup.
Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton set the tone with a blistering opening partnership of 148 runs in just 11.1 overs, dismantling KKR’s attack. Vaibhav Arora conceded 52 runs in his four overs, while Blessing Muzarabani gave away 34 runs in three overs. Impact substitute Kartik Tyagi managed figures of 1 for 43 from his four overs.
KKR’s experienced spin duo, Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, also struggled to make an impact on the flat track, leaking a combined 78 runs in seven overs.
With Green expected to resume bowling soon, KKR will be hoping to regain balance in their lineup and bounce back stronger in the upcoming matches.
