Cameron Green Set to Miss Second Test Against South Africa, Return for Third Test Uncertain

Australian all-rounder Cameron Green is set to miss the second Test against South Africa as he continues his recovery from an abdominal muscle strain. He is most likely to return to action in the third and final Test of the series.

Green sustained the injury during the final ODI of the series in Potchefstroom. After working on his fitness during the first Test, he took part in light throwdown batting practice in the nets for the first time last Thursday and also went through a sleeve-catching session.

Australia assistant coach Matthew Wade confirmed that Green is gradually recovering ahead of the team’s training session at St George’s Park. Wade said, “He’s with the group and has started moving around. Hopefully, he’ll be available for the third Test.”

Meanwhile, head coach Andrew McDonald had earlier indicated that even if Green regains his fitness as a batter, he is unlikely to bowl during the series. In Green’s absence in Durban, Australia reshuffled their batting order, promoting Matt Renshaw to No. 5, where he produced a magnificent innings of 272 runs.

Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis has made significant progress in his recovery from a finger injury. He has batted comfortably on the centre wicket against full-run-up deliveries from Scott Boland and Michael Neser. According to Matthew Wade, Inglis is pushing hard to secure a place in the playing XI for the second Test.

Having secured a comprehensive victory in the first Test and with no major fitness concerns among the other players, Australia are unlikely to make significant changes to their playing XI. The second Test is scheduled to begin on October 18, with rain forecast for the first two days.