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Australia yet to finalise playing XI for South Africa Test amid Cooper Connolly concern

Australia have postponed naming their opening Test XI for the Durban match after all‑rounder Cooper Connolly was placed in quarantine following a head cold. Connolly attended the final practice session, then left Kingsmead in a separate car wearing a mask, prompting selectors to reassess the middle order and the possible inclusion of left‑arm spinner Matt Kuhnemann.

Pat Cummins said the team is weighing options based on the expected conditions, noting the absence of Cameron Green with an abdominal injury and Josh Inglis also unavailable.

South Africa will be without fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, who is sidelined by a hamstring problem, while Kingsmead is expected to aid spin on day one. Head coach Andrew McDonald stressed the need for Australia to build larger totals and avoid rushing innings, acknowledging that recent pitches have been tough for batters.

He added that exploiting any flat periods could restore scoreboard pressure as the series begins on Friday, October 9.

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