Australian all-rounder Cameron Green has stated that he will likely make his bowling return in Sheffield Shield cricket rather than during the ODI or T20I series against India, which comes before the Test summer. However, his position at No. 3 in the upcoming Ashes series remains uncertain. The 26-year-old has played at No. 3 in Australia’s last four Tests, taking on a batting-only role while recovering from back surgery. After a rocky start, he improved with scores of 26, 52, 46, and 42, with the latter two innings being particularly valuable on a challenging Kingston pitch. Despite these performances, Green mentioned in Mackay before the second ODI against South Africa that his place at No. 3 for the Ashes opener in Perth is still uncertain as Australia continues to assess their top-order options. “You never know. I think there’s certainly a lot of guys that can fill that role. I’m really proud that I was able to do a role up there. But, yeah, wait and see,” Green said. If Green does not bat at No. 3 in the Ashes, Australia’s top six could be reconfigured. With Steven Smith and Travis Head established at four and five, Beau Webster’s spot at No. 6 may be under scrutiny once Green starts bowling again. Usman Khawaja seems set to open, but Sam Konstas faces competition from Jake Weatherald, who chairman of selectors George Bailey confirmed is “in the mix”. Additionally, Marnus Labuschagne’s form is a significant concern as the series approaches. Green is expected to resume bowling in the Ashes after gradually increasing his workload in training since June, following back surgery. He has only played as a batter in recent T20Is and ODIs but is likely to concentrate on red-ball cricket ahead of the Ashes, with three Sheffield Shield matches for Western Australia in October to aid his preparation. Australia has a busy schedule against New Zealand and India before the Ashes opener on November 21. “In the past, it’s worked really well when I focused on Shield cricket. So I think that potentially might be the way to go down, especially with working my way back with bowling. Potentially get a few more overs over a few more days might be the best way to go about it,” Green said. “I’m not quite certain on what match (I’ll return to bowling), but I’m feeling really good, in a really good spot. It’s exciting being back bowling at a reasonable intensity. It’s been a long road back.”