Nic Maddinson Recalled by Australia for South Africa Test After Cancer Recovery
Nic Maddinson has been brought back by Australia for the opening Test against South Africa following the New South Wales batsman’s recovery from testicular cancer. Sam Harper, an uncapped wicketkeeper from Victoria, joins Maddinson as an inclusion in the touring party to serve as cover for Josh Inglis, who sits out the first match of the series due to a finger injury. Diagnosed in April 2025 after the illness spread to his lymph nodes and lung, the 34-year-old Maddinson previously made three Test appearances for Australia late in 2016. Eight weeks after finishing his final round of treatment, he wrapped up a course of chemotherapy in July 2025 and received the all-clear to resume playing professionally. The Independent added that Maddinson has been made New South Wales captain for the 2026/27 Sheffield Shield season and returned to full cricket training in September.
Squad Adjustments and Injuries Ahead of Durban Opener
The three-match series begins in Durban on Friday, 9 October. Australia chair of selectors George Bailey outlined the rationale for the latest additions to the touring party.
“Sam give us wicketkeeping cover as Josh continues his recovery while Nic provides flexibility throughout the batting order,” Bailey said.
Harper, 29, made 128 for Australia A against India A in an unofficial Test in Puducherry and scored 677 runs in the 2025-26 Sheffield Shield season. Meanwhile, Inglis sustained a fracture of his right index finger confirmed by initial scans. His injury will be monitored before a possible return for the second Test in Gqeberha.
All-rounder Cameron Green is also a doubt for the first Test after sustaining a lower abdominal strain while batting in the final ODI preceding the red-ball series.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Australia Squad Changes
When did Nic Maddinson last play Test cricket for Australia?
Maddinson previously played three Test matches for Australia in late 2016. His recall for the South Africa series marks his return to the Test fold after nearly a decade.
What specific domestic innings preceded Maddinson’s Test recall?
Maddinson scored 126 runs for New South Wales against Victoria in Australia’s domestic one-day competition.
What other injury concerns face the Australian squad for the South African series?
Alongside Josh Inglis’s fractured right index finger, all-rounder Cameron Green is a doubt for the first Test due to a lower abdominal strain sustained while batting in the final ODI before the red-ball fixtures.
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