Nic Maddinson scores 33-ball duck on Test return for Australia
Nic Maddinson made a 33-ball duck on Test return after recovering from cancer treatment last year.
Nic Maddinson scored a 33-ball duck on his Test return for Australia against South Africa at Durban on Friday. The 34-year-old opener faced the longest duck by an Australian opener in Test history where ball-by-ball data is available. He missed 13 deliveries and edged one before chopping on to his stumps attempting a cut against Marco Jansen.
Maddinson last played Test cricket in 2016 and had not appeared in first-class cricket for over a year before his recall. He was selected ahead of 23-year-old Cooper Connolly after Cameron Green suffered an injury. Australia named an XI with all players aged over 30 for the first time in their history.
Maddinson was diagnosed with testicular cancer in April 2025 which spread to his lung and lymph nodes. He underwent surgery and chemotherapy before returning to cricket 12 months ago. He scored 126 in a domestic one-day match last month before earning the Test call-up.
CricHubb Take
Maddinson's selection over younger options reflects Australia's preference for experience despite limited recent first-class cricket. The outcome suggests the extended break from red-ball cricket created timing issues against quality pace bowling.