Maddinson recalled to open for Australia's first Test in Durban
The 34-year-old opens the batting in his first Test since 2016, recalled due to Josh Inglis' broken finger.
Maddinson will open the batting alongside Travis Head in Durban on Friday, filling gaps from Inglis' injury and Cameron Green's abdominal strain. The left-hander wasn't in Australia's original squad but was brought in after Inglis broke his finger.
Matthew Renshaw moves down to No.5. Maddinson last played Test cricket in 2016 but impressed in the Sheffield Shield, averaging 52.37 from December 2018 to March 2024.
Coach Andrew McDonald praised his flexibility and craft against spin and pace. It's a fairytale return for the newly-appointed NSW captain, who beat testicular cancer last year.
- 34
- Age
- 52.37
- Sheffield Shield average
- 10
- Years since last Test
- Durban
- Venue
Why it mattersAustralia's batting has struggled in recent series, and Maddinson's recall shows the team must replace injured players on the fly for a critical Test against the world's second-ranked team.
AustraliaMaddinson's return gives Australia a left-handed opener with Sheffield Shield form against South Africa in a series that will shape Australia's 2027 tours of India and England.
Corroborated by7news.com.au
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