Nic Maddinson set for Test return after beating cancer
Nic Maddinson is in contention for a Test return against South Africa after recovering from cancer.
Nic Maddinson is in contention to end a decade-long Test absence in Australia's series against South Africa starting Friday. The 34-year-old has not played a first-class match since March 2025 after undergoing chemotherapy for testicular cancer. He received the call from selector George Bailey while preparing to play club cricket for Eastern Suburbs. Maddinson said the selection was surprising but he remains motivated to return. If selected, he would become part of an Australia XI made up entirely of players aged 30 and above. His last Test appearance came in the 2016-17 series under Steve Smith and Darren Lehmann.
CricHubb Take
Maddinson's recall after illness and limited red-ball cricket shows Australia's preference for experienced players who fit the team's culture over younger alternatives.