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Nathan Lyon backs Cam Green to make it big as a Test No. 4.
Nathan Lyon, Australia's veteran off-spinner, has thrown down the gauntlet by suggesting that rising star Cameron Green possesses the potential to become "the next Jacques Kallis of batting at number 4." The bold pronouncement, was made during the second Test against West Indies in Brisbane which the visitors won.
Kallis, a South African legend, is revered for his all-round brilliance. He averaged over 55 in Tests, scoring 13,289 runs and claiming 292 wickets. Batting at number 4 was his domain, where he anchored innings with a blend of grit and flair. Green's powerful forehand drives and assured backfoot play echo Kallis's solidity. Additionally, his medium-pace bowling adds another dimension to his potential, just like Kallis's seam bowling complemented his batting.
"He has given me a lot of headaches"
"I have had the challenge of bowling to Greeny in Shield cricket with him batting at No. 4," Lyon said after play yesterday. "He has given me a lot of headaches. I actually enjoy seeing him bat there and I feel like he could be the next Jacques Kallis of international cricket at number four."
Green, at 25, has already showcasing prodigious talent but hans't reached anywhere close to his potential yet. He averages 33 in his fledgling Test career, with a highest score of 114 but has the temperament and technical prowess to thrive. He was recently given the number 4 position in the test setup and many believe that this will help him flourish at it was at that position that he really did well in first-class cricket.
So far, Green's stint at number four hasn't yielded the desired results, with only 64 runs across three innings but while this might raise some eyebrows, it's important to remember Green's raw talent and the unwavering support he enjoys from the team management. Lyon's vocal backing reinforces the faith the team has in him. This combination suggests his ascension to Kallis-esque heights might be a case of "when," not "if."