Australia have added Sam Harper and Nic Maddinson to their Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa, with both players brought in as injury cover ahead of the opening Test in Durban.
The changes follow the absence of wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, who has been ruled out of the first Test after suffering a fracture to his right index finger.
Australia will begin the three-match series against South Africa on October 9 at Kingsmead, with the contest forming part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
Sam Harper Added as Wicketkeeping Cover
Sam Harper has been called into Australia's Test squad as additional wicketkeeping cover behind Alex Carey.
Harper's selection comes after a productive period in domestic cricket and a strong performance for Australia A.
The wicketkeeper-batter recently scored 128 against India A in Puducherry, strengthening his case for a return to the national setup.
With Inglis unavailable for the opening Test, Harper gives Australia another specialist wicketkeeping option during the South Africa tour.
Alex Carey remains Australia's established Test wicketkeeper, but Harper will now be part of the squad's preparations ahead of the first Test.
Nic Maddinson Returns to Test Contention
Australia have also recalled Nic Maddinson as batting cover.
The 34-year-old returns to the Test squad nearly a decade after his previous appearance at international level. Maddinson last played Test cricket for Australia in 2016.
Since then, he has continued to build his career through domestic cricket, and his recent form has brought him back into Australia's wider Test plans.
His performances for Victoria, including a one-day century, have helped earn the left-hander another opportunity around the national side.
Maddinson's inclusion also gives Australia another left-handed batting option ahead of the three-Test series.
Josh Inglis Ruled Out of First Test
Josh Inglis suffered a fracture to his right index finger while keeping during Australia's first ODI against South Africa in Durban.
The injury forced Inglis out of the remainder of the ODI series and subsequently ruled him out of the opening Test.
With Alex Carey established as Australia's first-choice Test wicketkeeper, Harper has been brought into the squad as additional cover.
Inglis' absence is another selection issue for Australia as they prepare for a demanding Test series in South Africa.
Cameron Green Remains an Injury Concern
Australia also have concerns surrounding Cameron Green ahead of the first Test.
Green has suffered an abdominal strain, although Australia remain hopeful that he can recover sufficiently to be available for the Durban Test.
His fitness is particularly important because of his role as an all-rounder. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball gives Australia additional flexibility when balancing the playing XI.
A final decision on Green's availability will depend on his recovery and medical assessments before the Test.
Australia's Updated Test Squad for South Africa
Following the latest changes, Australia's squad is:
Pat Cummins (captain)
Scott Boland
Alex Carey
Sam Harper
Cooper Connolly
Cameron Green
Josh Hazlewood
Travis Head
Matthew Kuhnemann
Marnus Labuschagne
Nathan Lyon
Nic Maddinson
Michael Neser
Matthew Renshaw
Steve Smith
Mitchell Starc
Beau Webster
Josh Inglis was part of the original squad but has now been ruled out of the first Test.
Harper and Maddinson have subsequently been added to provide wicketkeeping and batting cover respectively.
Australia vs South Africa Test Series 2026 Schedule
Test | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
1st Test | October 9–13 | Kingsmead, Durban |
2nd Test | October 18–22 | St George's Park, Gqeberha |
3rd Test | October 27–31 | Newlands, Cape Town |
The series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.
The opening Test in Durban will be followed by matches in Gqeberha and Cape Town.
Why Harper and Maddinson Have Been Added
Australia's latest squad changes underline the injury management required ahead of the South Africa series.
Harper's addition ensures Australia have another specialist wicketkeeper available if required, while Maddinson strengthens the batting depth within the touring group.
Neither player was part of the original 16-player squad, but the latest injury developments have opened the door for both to join the Test setup.
The bigger selection question remains Cameron Green's fitness and whether he can recover in time to play in Durban.
Key Selection Questions Before the First Test
Australia now have several issues to resolve before the opening Test.
Who will keep wicket?
Alex Carey remains the first-choice Test wicketkeeper, with Sam Harper providing additional cover.
Will Cameron Green be fit?
Green is recovering from an abdominal strain and remains under assessment.
Can Nic Maddinson force his way into the XI?
Maddinson has been added as batting cover, but his inclusion in the final playing XI will depend on Australia's combination and conditions.
FAQs
Why was Sam Harper added to Australia's Test squad?
Harper was added as wicketkeeping cover after Josh Inglis was ruled out of the first Test with a fractured right index finger.
Why was Nic Maddinson called up?
Maddinson has been added as batting cover following his recent domestic form. His inclusion also gives Australia another left-handed batting option.
Who will keep wicket for Australia?
Alex Carey is Australia's first-choice Test wicketkeeper. Sam Harper will provide additional cover within the squad.
Is Josh Inglis available for the first Test?
No. Inglis has been ruled out of the opening Test after suffering a finger fracture.
Is Cameron Green fit for the first Test?
Green is currently dealing with an abdominal strain. Australia remain hopeful that he can recover in time for the Durban Test, but his availability will depend on his fitness assessment.
When does Australia vs South Africa begin?
The first Test starts on October 9, 2026, at Kingsmead in Durban.
Final Word
Australia have strengthened their Test squad ahead of the South Africa series by bringing in Sam Harper and Nic Maddinson.
Harper provides additional wicketkeeping cover following Josh Inglis' injury, while Maddinson returns to the Test setup as an extra batting option.
The focus will now turn to Australia's final preparations in Durban, with Cameron Green's fitness another key factor before the first Test gets underway on October 9.
