Oct 14,V7N- Australia's all-rounder Cameron Green is set to miss the upcoming home Test series against India after deciding to undergo surgery for a stress fracture in his lumbar spine. Green sustained the lower back injury during the ODI series in England, sparking uncertainty about his participation in the India series. Last week, Cricket Australia confirmed Green was contemplating surgery, which would be performed by New Zealand specialists experienced in treating fast bowlers like Shane Bond and James Pattinson for similar back issues.

Green had the option to avoid surgery and focus on rehabilitation while limiting his bowling during the India series. However, due to the complexity of his condition, surgery was chosen to ensure his long-term future as a bowler. A team spokesperson stated that while spine stress fractures are common in pace bowlers, Green has a unique defect contributing to the injury. The recovery period is expected to be about six months, with the decision aimed at preserving Green’s career as an all-rounder.

Green’s absence is a significant setback for Australia’s hopes of overcoming India in the five-Test series, which starts on November 22 in Perth. India has won the last four series between the teams, including two consecutive victories on Australian soil in 2018-19 and 2020-21. Australian selectors have been cautious with Green, who has dealt with back issues since his early career, but his 35 wickets at an average of 35.31 have provided crucial support to Australia's aging bowling attack.

Green’s batting has also improved, as evidenced by his second century, an unbeaten 174 against New Zealand in February. He has been batting at number four in the last four Tests, with Steve Smith moving up the order to replace the retired David Warner. Green’s absence may prompt a reshuffle in the batting lineup, with selectors possibly moving Smith back to number four and bringing in a specialist opener.

Victoria’s Marcus Harris, who last played a Test nearly three years ago, boosted his chances for selection with scores of 143 and 52 in the Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania. New South Wales’ 19-year-old opener Sam Konstas also impressed with twin centuries against South Australia, becoming the first player to achieve this feat in a Sheffield Shield match since Ricky Ponting.

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