Green, Renshaw Injury Concerns Add to Australia’s Test Series Worries

Australia’s preparations for the upcoming Test series against South Africa have been hit by fresh injury concerns after Cameron Green and Matt Renshaw were forced from the field during the third ODI in Potchefstroom on Wednesday.

Green, who has been managing a shoulder issue and had not bowled during Australia’s tour, was struck in the groin while batting. He appeared to be in further discomfort after swinging hard at the delivery that dismissed him.

The all-rounder had been expected to bowl several overs in the ODI but did not take the field when South Africa began their innings, raising concerns ahead of the first Test in Durban on October 9.

Renshaw also suffered a painful injury while fielding at close square leg early in South Africa’s innings. A powerful pull shot from Ryan Rickelton struck Renshaw on his right wrist, leaving him visibly in pain. He left the field at the end of the over and did not return before rain brought the match to an early conclusion.

Australia’s Injury List Grows

The latest setbacks add to a growing list of injury problems for Australia. Josh Inglis is recovering in Australia from a fractured finger, while Nathan Ellis has suffered a side strain and Jack Edwards and Joel Davies are dealing with hamstring injuries.

As a result, Australia had only 12 fit players available for the final ODI. With Josh Hazlewood rested ahead of the Test series, Test squad members Marnus Labuschagne and Beau Webster were required to substitute in the field.

Australia stand-in captain Mitchell Marsh said he had not yet spoken to Green or Renshaw after their injuries but remained hopeful that both players would be available for the Test series.

“I haven't spoken to them yet, but hopefully both are okay,” Marsh said.

Green had been scheduled to bowl after making progress with his shoulder rehabilitation.

“He was locked in to bowl a few overs today. He had a nice build, and it would have been nice for him to have a bowl,” Marsh said. “But yeah, it wasn't meant to be, and I'm sure that it won't affect his preparation too much, hopefully.”

Inglis Still a Selection Concern

Australia are also facing uncertainty over wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis. The selectors have not ruled him out of the Test series despite his fractured finger, but no additional cover has yet been added to the squad with only eight days remaining before the opening Test.

The situation is particularly important because Australia need a reserve wicketkeeper in case Alex Carey suffers a late injury or concussion. Inglis is also one of only two reserve batters in the current Test squad, alongside Cooper Connolly.

Marsh Confirms Test Return Is Not Planned

Marsh also confirmed that he will return home after the ODI series, ending speculation that he could be added to the Test squad following his strong recent performances in limited-overs cricket.

Marsh has not played a Test since December 2024 and has retired from domestic first-class cricket. However, Test captain Pat Cummins recently indicated that the door could remain open for Marsh to return to red-ball cricket.

“Pat said the door's open, then it's open,” Marsh said. “I don't think I would be good enough to retire from Test cricket.”

Marsh has not played a red-ball match since his final Sheffield Shield appearance last December. Since then, he has not faced more than 63 deliveries in any of his 47 List A or T20 matches.

Asked how he would approach Test batting if he returned to the format, Marsh admitted there was some uncertainty.

“It's a great question. I don't really know,” he said. “I would imagine it would be similar to my white-ball game if I was to get another crack at it.”

Cummins Makes Successful Return to Bowling

One positive for Australia was the return of Pat Cummins to bowling. The Test captain completed five overs without any apparent problems, his first spell since the Mackay Test in August.

Cummins did not captain Australia in the ODI, with Marsh remaining in charge.

Marsh explained that Cummins’ demanding schedule was the reason for sharing the captaincy responsibilities.

“Pat is the ODI skipper, and his schedule is hectic, as we all know,” Marsh said. “So today was a case of me finishing the series.”

Cummins is now set to turn his attention towards the Test series, while Australia await further updates on Green and Renshaw before the opening Test against South Africa in Durban on October 9.