Photo via The Times of India

‘Greatest pile of mediocrity’: Hayden goes off over ‘disrespecting cricket’

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has sharply criticized the national selection panel’s decision to recall Nic Maddinson for the upcoming three-Test series against South Africa, despite the batter’s prolonged absence from first-class cricket. Maddinson, who has not played a first-class match since early 2025, was added to the squad amid injuries to key players like Josh Inglis (finger injury) and Cameron Green (first-Test doubt), with the series set to begin in Durban on October 9.

Hayden, a 103-Test veteran, questioned Maddinson’s ability to contribute meaningfully, calling the current squad selection process a ‘greatest pile of mediocrity’ and accusing selectors George Bailey and Tony Dodemaide of undermining first-class cricket by prioritizing players with modest averages over proven performers. Maddinson’s last Test appearance was in 2016-17, where he scored just 27 runs across three matches, while his first-class average of 37.11 further fuels skepticism about his selection.

Hayden also highlighted alternative options, such as Sam Harper, who recently scored a century for Australia A in India, and criticized all-rounder Mitchell Marsh for his limited participation in Shield cricket, despite Cummins’ support. The debate underscores broader concerns about players’ declining commitment to domestic red-ball cricket in favor of franchise-based formats.

Up nextCricket· 3h ago

England coach should be English, suggests Fleming