Matthew Hayden tore into the selection panel on the All Over Bar podcast, arguing that bringing Nic Maddison back for the South Africa Tests is a step back for Australian cricket.
Maddison, 34, has not played first‑class since early 2025 and sits on a 37.11 average that Hayden says is far below the 45‑plus benchmark the selectors need.
The decision came amid a bruising injury crisis: Josh Inglis is out with a finger problem and Cameron Green is doubtful for the opener in Durban.
Hayden also pointed to Sam Harper as a better option, citing Harper’s recent century for Australia A and his 45‑plus average, and slammed Mitchell Marsh’s limited Shield experience.
He warned that the trend of players prioritising lucrative franchise leagues over domestic red‑ball cricket is eroding the quality of the national side.
The selectors now face mounting pressure as the series kicks off on October 9, and the debate over who should wear the green and gold will intensify.