{
  "id": 11313441,
  "title": "Australia calls Maddinson and Harper into Test squad",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/02/australia-calls-maddinson-and-harper-into-test-squad",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-02T00:08:28.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-10-02/australia-calls-nic-maddinson-and-sam-harper-into-test-squad/107219810"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Australian selectors have included Nic Maddinson and Sam Harper in the Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa. However, Cam Green is doubtful due to an abdominal strain, while Josh Inglis is out for the first Test due to a fractured finger. Maddinson is close to returning to the Test team after a 10-year absence, whereas Harper joins as a backup wicketkeeper. Inglis suffered the finger fracture while playing in the ODI opener against South Africa last week. The Australian medical team will closely monitor Green's injury, which could impact his bowling ability. Matt Renshaw's wrist injury is now cleared, but the lineup for the first Test remains uncertain with up to two top-six spots open. Maddinson, who last played a Test in 2016, and Harper, the second-leading run-scorer in last summer's Sheffield Shield, both offer new options for Australia.",
  "summary": "Nic Maddinson is within touching distance of a remarkable return to the Test team, after Cameron Green's abdominal strain left him a doubt for the series opener against South Africa.",
  "key_points": [
    "Nic Maddinson and Sam Harper added to Test squad for South Africa series",
    "Cam Green doubtful with abdominal strain, Josh Inglis out for first Test",
    "Maddinson returns after 10-year absence, Harper joins as backup wicketkeeper"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The call-ups of Maddinson and Harper signal a fresh approach by Australian selectors, who are weighing new options for the top six batting spots ahead of the series against South Africa.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "ABC News",
        "title": "Australia calls Maddinson and Harper into Test squad",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/02/australia-calls-maddinson-and-harper-into-test-squad-11315099",
        "published": "2026-10-02T00:08:28.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}