Nic Maddinson returns to Australia Test side 10 years after debut
Maddinson returns to the Test side a decade after his last appearance after recovering from cancer that spread to his lung and lymph nodes, opening the batting in Durban.
Nic Maddinson made his first Test appearance in 10 years during Australia's opening match against South Africa in Durban after battling testicular cancer that spread to his lung and lymph nodes. The 34-year-old was diagnosed in April 2025, completed chemotherapy in July and resumed cricket in September after medical clearance.
Maddinson was called up as cover for injured Cameron Green and earned selection ahead of Cooper Connolly after Josh Inglis was ruled out with a finger injury. He opened the batting with Travis Head and was dismissed for a 33-ball duck, the longest duck by an Australian opener in Test cricket. Maddinson had not played first-class cricket since March 2025 before scoring 126 in a domestic one-day match for New South Wales.
He was recently named captain of New South Wales for the 2026-27 Sheffield Shield season. Australia reached 187 for 6 at stumps on day one with Matt Renshaw unbeaten on 46 and Pat Cummins on 33.
CricHubb Take
A player returning from cancer treatment and earning an unexpected recall demonstrates how quickly domestic form can override long absences when injuries create selection gaps.