Sydney, October 1 (Daily Kiran) : Australia has announced the inclusion of wicketkeeper-batsman Sam Harper and left-handed batsman Nick Maddinson in their squad for the first Test against South Africa, scheduled to take place in Durban. This decision comes after Josh Inglis was ruled out of the series opener due to a fracture in his right index finger.
Inglis sustained the injury before the three-match series, preventing him from participating in the first Test. His availability for the second match in Gqeberha will depend on his recovery progress.
Harper earned his spot in the team following an impressive performance for Australia A against India A in Puducherry, where he scored a remarkable century of 128 runs, strengthening his case for selection.
Maddinson is poised for a potential return to Test cricket after nearly a decade. The 33-year-old last played a Test match for Australia in 2016 and has since faced significant challenges, including treatment for testicular cancer.
His inclusion is expected to bolster Australia’s batting lineup, while also marking a significant comeback for him in the longest format of the game. Concerns remain regarding all-rounder Cameron Green’s fitness, as his participation in the Durban Test is still uncertain.
Green suffered a lower abdominal strain during the last ODI against South Africa. His status will be monitored over the coming week before a decision is made regarding his availability for the first Test.
The Test series between Australia and South Africa kicks off on October 9 in Durban, followed by the second Test on October 18 in Gqeberha, and the third Test on October 27 in Johannesburg.
This three-match Test series is part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle for 2025-27. Currently, Australia sits at the top of the points table, with South Africa, the reigning champions, in second place. Both teams aim to solidify their standings in the WTC rankings, with the ultimate goal of reaching the prestigious final at The Oval.
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