Australia name Test XI after toss, with Connolly uncertain

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 8 Oct, 18:24 · Archive

Australia will announce their XI after the toss in their first Test against South Africa, with Cooper Connolly's fitness unclear.

Australia will announce their Test XI for the first match against South Africa after the toss on Friday, with Cooper Connolly's involvement still undecided. The 23-year-old travelled separately from the squad wearing a mask after training, having developed a head cold. Australia's medical team opted for caution, though Connolly participated normally in the afternoon session.

The squad faces selection challenges with Cameron Green unavailable due to an abdominal strain and Josh Inglis sidelined by a fractured finger. Connolly and Nic Maddinson are both in contention to bat at number five. Connolly has not played a Test since his debut against Sri Lanka last February, while Maddinson's last appearance was in December 2016.

The pitch condition will influence the final decision. Both players could feature if the wicket is particularly dry, given that Maddinson is a skilled spinner player and Connolly offers left-arm spin options. South Africa have already confirmed they will field two spinners, Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, suggesting they expect a pitch favourable to spin bowling. Australia captain Pat Cummins said the team is working out 'what we think the best combo is'.

How it is being reported

• Masked man intrigue as Australia weigh up Test XIAustralia will wait until the toss to name their side to face South Africa, with the sight of Cooper Connolly leaving training in a mask adding more intrigue.The West Australian · 8 Oct, 17:56
• Masked man intrigue as Australia weigh up Test XIAustralia will wait until the toss to name their side to face South Africa, with the sight of Cooper Connolly leaving training in a mask adding more intrigue.Perth Now · 8 Oct, 17:56

In this story: Australia · South Africa · Cooper Connolly · Cameron Green · Josh Inglis · Nic Maddinson · Pat Cummins · Durban

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