The Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch sparked debate on the second day of the Boxing Day Test, but it is Australia’s batting lineup that is under intense scrutiny. Former Test batsman Simon Katich did not hold back, describing Cameron Green’s latest dismissal as “predetermined rubbish.”
Australia found themselves bowled out for 152 and 132 by 2 PM (AEDT) on the second day, losing 20 wickets in just 79.5 overs. This marked a historic low, as the last time Australia was bowled out twice in a Test in fewer overs was back in 1928 against England in Brisbane.
Pressure Mounts on Cameron Green
After failing to capitalize on their initial advantage, Australia slumped to 3-34 before a brief rally brought them to 7-143 with Green and Steve Smith at the crease. However, Green’s dismissal for 17 runs, without surpassing 45 in six innings this series, triggered a collapse of 3-9. This opened the door for England to chase their first Test win in Australia since 2011.
Green’s position in the team is increasingly under pressure. His dismissal, where he lunged at a wide and short delivery from Ben Stokes, was criticized by Katich on Channel Seven:
“It’s predetermined rubbish. Watch the ball and play it instinctively off the track.”
Beau Webster is gaining momentum for a Test recall as Green’s tally stands at 109 runs at an average of 21.8 this series. Kayo Sports commentator David Warner expressed empathy for Green, stating,
“He’s been up and down the order like a yo-yo trying to find his spot and allowing other people to come in.”
Other Batters Under the Spotlight
Green is not the only batter facing criticism. Opener Jake Weatherald, averaging 20.85 from his first four Tests, was bowled by Stokes while shouldering arms. Despite a promising score of 72 in Brisbane, he has managed only 74 runs from his other seven innings. Weatherald is expected to be retained for the fifth Test in Sydney but needs a significant score to solidify his place before Australia’s Test series against Bangladesh in August.
Warner commented on Weatherald’s technique:
“Jake’s issue is a little bit of a technical thing. He falls over a little bit. He’s going to have to analyse the way that he’s been getting out.”
Dependable Performers and Struggles
Travis Head and Alex Carey have emerged as Australia’s most reliable batsmen, with Head scoring 437 runs at an average of 54.62 and Carey 291 runs at 48.5. In contrast, Marnus Labuschagne has struggled, scoring 174 runs at an average of 24.85. Labuschagne has not scored a Test century since July 2023, and Usman Khawaja was caught hooking for a duck, potentially marking his farewell Test at the SCG next week.
Warner remains hopeful for Labuschagne’s future:
“You’d hope Marnus can turn it around and bat at No.3 for the next five years.”
Looking Ahead
This development follows a series of disappointing performances from Australia’s batting lineup, raising questions about their readiness for upcoming challenges. As the team prepares for the fifth Test in Sydney, the pressure is on for players like Green and Weatherald to prove their worth. The upcoming series against Bangladesh will be another test of their resilience and ability to adapt under pressure.
Meanwhile, selectors may consider changes to the lineup, with potential recalls for players like Beau Webster. The focus will be on finding a stable batting order that can withstand the pressures of international Test cricket. As Australia looks to regain its form, the spotlight remains firmly on the batsmen to deliver and turn the tide in their favor.
