Photo: Cameron Green(Getty)
SA vs AUS: Cameron Green’s participation in Gqeberha Test in doubt; hopes rise for Josh Inglis’s return
There is mixed news for the Australian team ahead of the second Test match against South Africa, which begins on October 18 in Gqeberha. Star all-rounder Cameron Green may miss the second Test due to an abdominal strain, though he is more likely to return for the third and final Test in Cape Town. Meanwhile, Josh Inglis, who is recovering from a finger injury, is pushing to be considered for selection for the second Test.
Cameron Green: Eyes set on the Cape Town Test
Cameron Green sustained an abdominal strain during the final ODI in Potchefstroom. He returned to the nets for the first time on Thursday, though he only faced light throw-downs and practiced slip catching.
- Statement from assistant coach Matthew Wade: "Green has returned to training and will be back to full-intensity batting by next week. It looks like he is aiming for a return in the third Test."
- Likely to play only as a batter: Head coach Andrew McDonald has already clarified that even if Green becomes fully fit, it is highly unlikely that he will bowl during this series.
- Strong performance by Matt Renshaw: In the first Test in Durban, Matt Renshaw—who stepped in to bat at number five in Green’s absence—scored 272 runs, intensifying the competition for a spot in the middle order.
Status of Josh Inglis and Beau Webster
- Josh Inglis: Recovering from a fractured finger, Josh Inglis faced fast bowling from Scott Boland and Michael Neser in the center-wicket nets. According to assistant coach Wade, Inglis is working hard to make himself available for selection for the second Test.
- Beau Webster: Discussions are ongoing regarding the spot at number 7—currently held by Beau Webster—but given Australia's commanding victory in the first Test, major changes to the playing XI appear unlikely.
The second Test match between Australia and South Africa is set to begin on October 18, though rain is forecast for the first two days of the match.
