Hayden slams selectors over shock Maddinson recall for South Africa
Matthew Hayden has launched an explosive attack on Australian selectors George Bailey and Tony Dodemaide over the shock Test recall of Nic Maddinson.
Australian legend Matthew Hayden has teed off at selectors George Bailey and Tony Dodemaide in an explosive rant. The fierce criticism follows the shock decision to add Nic Maddinson to the Test squad for the upcoming series against South Africa.
Hayden believes the pair are "friggin’ dreaming" if they think the 34-year old can contribute in the XI. Maddinson's recall came with selectors needing batting depth for an injury-plagued squad missing Josh Inglis and Cameron Green.
Nearly a decade since an unsuccessful Test debut, Maddinson has not played first-class cricket since early 2025 due to testicular cancer. His career average of 37.11 and low returns from his initial three Tests have raised widespread concerns.
Hayden did not hold back on the All Over Bar The Cricket podcast. He stated that selectors are promoting a pile of mediocrity and disrespecting first-class cricket.
Co-host Greg Blewett revealed that Mitchell Marsh would have been called up ahead of Maddinson following strong ODI performances against the Proteas. However, Marsh chose to return home for the impending birth of his second child.
Hayden argued that Marsh's lack of desire to play red-ball Shield cricket should have disqualified him for Test duty. Veteran journalist Peter Lalor also called Maddinson's selection the most astounding in his career, though he noted a lack of high-averaging Shield alternatives.
Chief selector George Bailey defended the move, stating Maddinson is the best fit for South African conditions. Meanwhile, former fast bowler Ryan Harris described the call-up as a kick in the guts to the domestic setup.
Both Maddinson and Harper remain in the selection frame for the opening Test in Durban. Fox Cricket will broadcast the series live and exclusively.