Australia have recalled Nic Maddinson to the Test squad for the series opener in South Africa, marking his first inclusion in the red-ball setup since 2016. Wicketkeeper Sam Harper has also been added as cover for the first Test in Durban, which begins on October 9.
The squad changes follow the confirmation that Josh Inglis is ruled out of the opening match at Kingsmead with a fractured right index finger sustained during the ODI series. All-rounder Cameron Green is also a doubt for the match due to a lower abdominal strain suffered in Potchefstroom.
Maddinson returns to the national side following his recovery from testicular cancer, which was diagnosed in April 2025 and spread to his lung and lymph nodes before he was cleared late last year. While he has not played a first-class match in 18 months, his recent form includes a domestic List A century for New South Wales. Analysis suggests his selection is a tactical move based on this recent form despite the lack of red-ball match practice.
Chief selector George Bailey confirmed the additions to the touring party. “Sam gives us wicketkeeping cover as Josh continues his recovery while Nic provides flexibility throughout the batting order,” Bailey said.
Harper joins the squad following a performance for Australia A against India A in Puducherry, where he scored 128. His inclusion provides a specialist alternative behind the stumps while Inglis recovers.
In a fitness update for the visitors, opener Matt Renshaw has been cleared to play. Renshaw underwent a medical assessment on October 2 after sustaining a wrist injury while fielding in the final ODI and is confirmed to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja in Durban.
Australia currently leads the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 standings, with South Africa in second place. Analysis indicates that if Green is unable to bowl, Australia may consider all-rounder options such as Beau Webster to balance the side. This tour is Australia’s first red-ball visit to South Africa since 2018. Following the Durban Test, the series continues in Gqeberha on October 18 and Johannesburg on October 27.
