Australia have suffered another injury setback ahead of the first Test against South Africa, with Cameron Green likely to miss the series opener in Durban. The all-rounder is racing against time to recover from an abdominal strain suffered during the third ODI against the Proteas last month.
Green did not take part in Australia’s two-day warm-up match against the Cricket South Africa Invitational XI in Potchefstroom. He was limited to light conditioning work away from the main training group, raising doubts over his availability for the Kingsmead Test.
Cameron Green faces race against time for Test opener
Green sustained the abdominal injury while attempting a hook shot during the final ODI against South Africa. Although Australia have not officially ruled him out, his limited involvement in the warm-up game suggests the 27-year-old could be forced to wait until the second or third Test to make his return. The injury is another concern for Green, who has also been managing a shoulder issue that has affected his bowling during Australia’s previous three series.
His latest problem could affect all three disciplines and leave the selectors with another difficult decision over their batting and bowling combination. Green had been expected to play an important role against South Africa after scoring a Test century against Bangladesh in Darwin. He was among Australia’s better performers in that two-match series alongside Steve Smith.
Australia face selection dilemma ahead of first Test
If Green is unavailable, Western Australia all-rounder Cooper Connolly could be handed his second Test appearance. He could benefit from expectations of a spin-friendly surface in Durban, while his batting would also provide Australia with another option in the lower order.
Beau Webster’s place in the XI would also be strengthened by Green’s absence. Australia could additionally consider recently added squad members Sam Harper and Nic Maddinson, although the latter would represent a major selection gamble given his long absence from Test and red-ball cricket. Former Australia Test fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has already questioned Maddinson’s inclusion, arguing that Matthew Renshaw or Connolly should remain ahead of him in the selection order.
Meanwhile, Marnus Labuschagne strengthened his case for the No. 3 position with a rapid 111 in the warm-up match. However, Australia will be aware that the CSA XI attack was significantly weaker than the pace unit they are set to face when the Test series begins in Durban.
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