Cameron Green Falls Short of Ton as Campbell Kellaway Emerges as Khawaja’s Heir
With the cricket world’s attention firmly on Perth ahead of the upcoming Ashes opener, Cameron Green has narrowly missed out on breaking his first-class century drought in the Sheffield Shield.
The Western Australia all-rounder looked poised to reach three figures on day three against Queensland, only to fall for 94 after being trapped LBW by Michael Neser, who produced a sharp delivery that jagged back off the seam.
It’s been more than 20 months since Green’s last first-class hundred — an unbeaten 174 against New Zealand in March 2024 — and the disappointment was evident as he trudged off the WACA after a composed but bittersweet innings.
So Close, Yet So Far
Green raced to 84 off 132 balls before tightening up as the milestone approached, managing just 10 runs from his next 40 deliveries. Despite missing out on his ton, the 25-year-old’s return from back surgery has been impressive, showing both bowling rhythm and batting confidence this Shield season.
WA skipper Sam Whiteman declared at 7-322, leaving his side still 68 runs behind Queensland’s total. Green shared a 105-run stand with Aaron Hardie (55*), giving Western Australia a fighting chance to push for a result in the four-day clash.
Rogers Touts Kellaway as Khawaja’s Successor
While Green and Marnus Labuschagne pressed their Test credentials ahead of the Ashes, another young batter caught the eye further east.
Victoria coach Chris Rogers believes Campbell Kellaway could be the natural successor to Usman Khawaja at the top of Australia’s order, calling him a “ready-made Test player.”
The 23-year-old opener scored a gutsy 51 against New South Wales at the SCG, facing a formidable attack of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon — after already notching a 147 against Tasmania last month.
Kellaway’s resilience shone during a fierce 45-minute post-lunch duel with Starc, during which he wore several deliveries on the gloves and body before grinding out his half-century. His composure impressed both Rogers and national selector Tony Dodemaide, who watched from the stands.
“It’s proven once again he could be the successor to Khawaja. He’s going to do fantastic things in his career,” Rogers said.
“He stood up against one of the world’s best attacks and handled it brilliantly. That’s a real tick.”
Australia’s Opening Future Beyond Khawaja
With Khawaja turning 39 next month, his Test career is nearing its twilight. The veteran has yet to confirm plans beyond the Ashes, potentially leaving a vacancy at the top of Australia’s order.
Jake Weatherald could open alongside Khawaja in the first Ashes Test next week, while Matt Renshaw strengthened his case with a first-innings 101 in Perth.
Among the next generation, Sam Konstas remains a developing talent, while Harry Dixon continues to impress at the domestic level. But for now, all eyes are on Kellaway — the young Victorian whose poise and patience suggest he could be Australia’s next long-term opener.
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