Australia have strengthened their batting options ahead of the upcoming Test series against South Africa after adding Nic Maddinson and Sam Harper to the squad. The changes come after Josh Inglis was ruled out of the opening Test due to a finger fracture sustained during the ODI series, while Cameron Green’s availability remains uncertain because of an abdominal strain.

Nic Maddinson completes remarkable return to Test squad

Maddinson’s inclusion marks a significant moment in his career as the 34-year-old returns to Australia’s Test setup after overcoming a major health setback. He underwent treatment for testicular cancer in 2025 before making his way back into contention.

His addition provides Australia with another experienced batting option as the team prepares for a challenging series against South Africa. The selectors have opted to add further depth following Inglis’ injury, with the wicketkeeper-batter already ruled out of the series opener.

Maddinson now has an opportunity to make his comeback count, having been rewarded with a place in the updated squad for the two-Test assignment.

Sam Harper earns call-up after Australia A century

Harper has also been included after making an immediate impression for Australia A. The 28-year-old struck a century this week, strengthening his case for selection and earning a place in the Test squad. His call-up comes at a time when Australia are managing multiple fitness concerns within their batting group. Inglis remains unavailable for the first Test, while Green is racing against time to recover from his abdominal strain.

Australia will also keep a close eye on Matt Renshaw, who was struck on his right hand during the third ODI. Despite that setback, Renshaw is expected to be available for the opening Test, giving the visitors another potential batting option.

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Australia face selection questions before Durban Test

The injury concerns have created additional uncertainty around Australia’s combinations for the first Test. Green’s fitness will be particularly important, with the all-rounder still working towards being ready for the series opener. Inglis’ absence is already confirmed for the first Test, although he has been retained in the squad and is listed as available from the second Test onwards. His return could therefore provide Australia with another option later in the series. The opening Test is scheduled to begin in Durban on October 9.

Australia squad for South Africa Tests (Updated): Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, Sam Harper, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (second Test onwards), Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nic Maddinson, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster

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