Puducherry to Potch: Harper’s rapid rise to Australia’s Test squad

Victoria wicketkeeper Sam Harper has earned a rapid call-up to Australia's Test squad in South Africa as injury cover for Josh Inglis, who suffered a fractured finger. Harper arrived in Potchefstroom from Puducherry, India, where he had been playing for Australia A, and joined the team ahead of a two-day warm-up match.

Harper's selection follows a strong surge in form, having doubled his career first-class centuries tally across his last five matches. Chair of selectors George Bailey praised Harper's improved glovework and versatile batting, while noting that Inglis will undergo another scan before a decision is made regarding the second Test.