Australia allrounder Cameron Green is in danger of missing the second Test against South Africa in Gqeberha, with a return for the series finale in Cape Town emerging as a more realistic possibility.
Green returned to the nets on Thursday for the first time since sustaining an abdominal strain during the final ODI in Potchefstroom. He had spent the opening Test in Durban focusing on fitness work but remains in the early stages of his recovery.
During his latest training session, Green faced gentle throwdowns before taking part in slip-catching drills on the outfield. He then continued his fitness programme under the supervision of Australia’s medical staff.
Speaking ahead of Australia’s first training session at St George’s Park, assistant coach Matthew Wade suggested that the team was targeting the third Test for Green’s potential comeback.
“He's here today. I'm not sure of his program, but he'll be hitting over the next week and he started to get moving last Test,” Wade said. “I think maybe more looking for the third Test, but he's starting to get moving, which is a positive sign.”
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald had previously indicated that even if Green recovered sufficiently to feature in the series, he would be unlikely to bowl and would potentially be considered only as a specialist batter.
Matt Renshaw Strengthens His Case at No. 5
Green’s absence in Durban forced Australia to reshuffle their batting order, with Matt Renshaw moving into the No. 5 position. Renshaw made the most of the opportunity, scoring 272 runs in the Test.
Green had been expected to establish himself at No. 5 following an impressive series against Bangladesh in August. However, his injury has opened the door for Renshaw to strengthen his position in the middle order.
Josh Inglis Pushes for a Return
Meanwhile, wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis appears to be further along in his recovery from a fractured finger and is increasing the intensity of his batting sessions.
Inglis faced Scott Boland and Michael Neser at full run-up pace in a centre-wicket net session, indicating progress in his rehabilitation.
“He'll start to push for this Test,” Wade said. “Whether his finger is 100% right for this Test, I'm not sure, but he's looking to put himself on the frame.”
Inglis could therefore come into contention for the Gqeberha Test, although his availability will depend on how his finger responds to the increased workload.
Australia Unlikely to Make Major Changes
Beau Webster’s place at No. 7 could come under consideration as Australia assess their options ahead of the second Test. However, following their commanding victory in Durban, the visitors are unlikely to make significant changes if their fast bowlers recover well from their workloads.
Webster also participated in Thursday’s centre-wicket session alongside Boland and Neser as Australia continued preparations for the upcoming contest.
The second Test is scheduled to begin on October 18 in Gqeberha, with rain forecast for the opening two days potentially posing an additional challenge for both teams.
With Green’s recovery still in progress and Inglis working towards full fitness, Australia will closely monitor their players before finalising their combination for the second Test.