Nic Maddinson, Sam Harper added to Australia's squad for South Africa Test series

Australia have added Nic Maddinson and wicketkeeper-batter Sam Harper to their squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against South Africa. Maddinson underwent treatment for testicular cancer last year and has been added as cover for Josh Inglis, who’s been ruled out of the first Test due to a fractured right finger.

All-rounder Cameron Green is also in doubt for the opening Test match of the series in Durban after suffering an abdominal injury during the recent third ODI between the two teams.

Maddinson has played three Tests in his career against South Africa and Pakistan in 2016. He’s yet to play a first-class match since undergoing chemotherapy in mid-2025.

Matt Renshaw, who also got hit on his arm while fielding during the third ODI, has been cleared of injury. Inglis could well return to the tour as his injured finger is set to be assessed ahead of the second Test in Gqeberha.

Australia’s chief selector George Bailey revealed that Harper has been added as wicketkeeping cover for Inglis while Maddinson gives depth in the batting order.

"Sam gives us wicketkeeping cover as Josh continues his recovery while Nic provides flexibility throughout the batting order,” Bailey was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

Australia Test squad for South Africa Tests: 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