Puducherry Hero to Proteas Tour: Sam Harper’s Sudden Test Call-Up

Victorian keeper-batter Sam Harper has earned his maiden call-up to Australia’s Test squad for their upcoming series against South Africa, completing a rapid transition from India to Potchefstroom.

The Trigger: Wicketkeeper Josh Inglis was ruled out of the opening Test in Durban after suffering a fractured index finger during the ODI series against South Africa. The Performance: Harper pushed his case with a defiant, unbeaten century (128*) for Australia A against India A in Puducherry. Coming in at 16/3, his middle-order fightback guided Australia A to a commanding total.

Role in Squad: Selectors named the 29-year-old as the primary like-for-like backup to first-choice wicketkeeper Alex Carey. Harper’s versatility—ability to glove and bat across the top seven—made him an ideal inclusion.

Nic Maddinson's Return: Alongside Harper, veteran batter Nic Maddinson was also added to the Test squad. Maddinson earns a potential return to Test cricket nearly a decade after his 2016 debut, following a strong domestic comeback from testicular cancer treatment.

Further Fitness Concerns: Australia are also monitoring all-rounder Cameron Green, who sustained a lower abdominal strain during the third ODI and remains a doubt for the Durban opener.

Inglis, who is currently back home in Western Australia, will have another scan on his finger in a week's time when a call will be made on whether he returns head of the second Test in Gqeberha which begins on October 18.