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Cameron Green Ruled Out of First Test Against South Africa Australia have suffered another selection setback ahead of the opening Test against South Africa, with all-rounder Cameron Green ruled out of the series opener in Durban. Green has been unable to recover sufficiently from an abdominal strain suffered during the third ODI against South Africa in Potchefstroom last week. Australia coach Andrew McDonald confirmed on Tuesday that the 27-year-old will miss the first Test, which begins on October 9. Unusual Injury During ODI Green sustained the injury during a dramatic sequence while batting in the final ODI. He was struck in the abdominal area by a full toss from South African fast bowler Corbin Bosch. After recovering from the blow, Green attempted another shot shortly afterwards, but the ball caught his gloves and he was dismissed. The fall caused further strain to the affected area. McDonald described the injury as unusual, explaining that it involved a stabilising muscle and that Australia's medical staff had limited cricket-specific evidence to work with. Green subsequently missed Australia's two-day tour match against a Cricket South Africa Invitational XI as he began his rehabilitation. Hope Remains for Later Tests Although Green will not play in Durban, Australia have not ruled him out of the remainder of the three-Test series. McDonald said there was still optimism that the all-rounder could return for either the second Test in Gqeberha, beginning October 18, or the third match in Johannesburg from October 27. However, his bowling involvement appears highly unlikely. Green had already been managing a shoulder problem during the tour and had not been bowling. McDonald indicated that, if Green returns, Australia are likely to focus on getting him back as a batter rather than asking him to immediately resume bowling. A Significant Blow for Australia Green's absence is particularly disappointing given his recent form. He was Australia's leading run-scorer during the Test series against Bangladesh in August, including his maiden Test century on home soil. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball also makes him an important part of Australia's balance. Australia are already dealing with another major selection issue, with wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis unavailable for the first Test because of a fractured finger. Who Could Replace Green? Australia now have several options for the vacant position in the batting order. Cooper Connolly is among the leading candidates, while Nic Maddinson is also in contention after being recalled to the Test squad almost a decade after his previous appearance for Australia. Beau Webster could also retain his place as the team's all-round option. The final decision could depend partly on conditions at Kingsmead in Durban, particularly how much assistance the pitch is expected to provide to spin. A Crucial Test Series The three-match series is important for both teams as part of the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle. The first Test begins in Durban on October 9, followed by matches in Gqeberha and Johannesburg. South Africa enter the series as the reigning World Test Championship holders, while Australia currently lead the standings. For Green, the immediate priority will be completing his rehabilitation without aggravating the injury. Australia will hope he can return later in the series, but his absence in Durban leaves the visitors with another difficult selection decision before the opening Test.