Australia’s Josh Inglis (Image: REUTERS)
Australia could face a selection headache ahead of the second Test against South Africa in Gqeberha, with Josh Inglis set to rejoin the squad as he continues his recovery from a fractured finger. The wicketkeeper-batter’s potential return, coupled with Cameron Green’s bid to recover from an abdominal strain, could force the team management to reassess its batting combination.
The 31-year-old would likely have been in contention for the Durban Test after Green was ruled out with an abdominal strain sustained during the final ODI. Australia will also have to consider the performances of the players who stepped in during their absence, particularly Matt Renshaw, whose 190 in the first innings of the Durban Test helped the visitors recover from a precarious position to post 390. Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news , check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule .
Explaining the selection challenge, Australia head coach Andrew McDonald said Inglis’ absence had effectively required the team to replace two roles rather than simply bring in another batter. We had sort of flexibility with Josh and then Harper obviously takes the back-up glove role and then you’ve got where we got to with Nic,” McDonald said. Inglis received encouraging news following a medical assessment, with surgery ruled out. He is expected to travel to South Africa and link up with the squad ahead of the second Test. However, his availability for selection will depend on a further assessment by the Australian medical staff. Inglis sustained the finger fracture while keeping wickets during the opening ODI against South Africa in Durban late last month. The injury ruled him out of the first Test and forced Australia to make changes to their squad. However, Inglis’ own injury left Australia needing additional cover, prompting the inclusion of wicketkeeper Sam Harper and the recall of Nic Maddinson to the Test setup. “It really turned into two players replacing Josh Inglis, If you looked at it like that, it wasn’t [just] another batter coming in. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines Green’s potential return could further complicate Australia’s plans for the remainder of the series. The all-rounder sustained an abdominal strain while batting in the third ODI against South Africa and was subsequently ruled out of the series opener. His recovery will be closely monitored as Australia weigh their options for the second Test. If both Green and Inglis are cleared to play, the selectors will need to decide how to accommodate their returns while balancing the team’s batting and wicketkeeping requirements. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.