Josh Inglis Scores Century at Newlands After Late Call-Up for Steven Smith

Josh Inglis has provided a definitive glimpse into Australia’s batting future, scoring a vital 102 as a last-minute replacement for Steven Smith in the series-deciding third Test at Newlands. Inglis, who was only told he was playing 75 minutes before the toss on October 27, completed his second Test century on Day 3 to help anchor Australia’s first-innings total of 429.

The performance carries significant weight for Australian selectors as the national side begins to navigate a generational transition. With Smith sidelined due to a lingering neck complaint, Inglis stepped into the middle order and shared a 185-run partnership with wicketkeeper Alex Carey. This stand secured a 100-run first-innings lead for the visitors, following South Africa’s initial 329.

Inglis’ hundred helped Australia secure a 100-run lead in the first innings.

By reaching triple figures, Inglis became the first Australian male cricketer to score multiple centuries in all three international formats: Tests, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals. The achievement is particularly notable given Inglis’ recent physical hurdles; he batted with a protective splint on his index finger, having recently returned from Perth after treating a fracture sustained during the ODI leg of the tour.

The Morning Call-Up

The timeline of Inglis’ inclusion highlights the “supersub” nature of his role. Chairman of selectors George Bailey reportedly informed Inglis of his selection at 8:45 AM on the first morning of the match. While initial reports suggested Smith might be managing a concussion, team management clarified that the late withdrawal was due to a neck injury.

Inglis, who scored his maiden Test ton against Sri Lanka in early 2025, resumed on Day 3 with 85 runs to his name. He added 17 more to reach his century before being dismissed for 102. His ability to adapt quickly to the Cape Town conditions, particularly his proficiency against spin, reinforces his case for a permanent spot as Australia looks toward the 2027 tour of India.

Match Situation at Newlands

Despite the advantage gained by Inglis and Carey, the third Test remains finely balanced. The Australian bowling attack, led by Pat Cummins, made late inroads to keep the match within reach, but the Proteas’ resilience ensures a competitive final two days.

The long-term implications of this match extend beyond the immediate scoreboard. With senior batters like Smith and Usman Khawaja entering the twilight of their careers, the success of the Carey-Inglis partnership suggests a middle-order blueprint that selectors may look to solidify. Whether Inglis remains in the XI for the upcoming home summer or returns to a reserve role will likely depend on Smith’s recovery and the team’s balance regarding specialist batters versus multi-role players.

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