Josh Inglis Sustains New Injury, Doubtful For Australia Vs Bangladesh 1st Test

Josh Inglis (Source: AFP)

Australia's preparations for the upcoming two-match Test series against Bangladesh have suffered an early setback after wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis sustained a back injury. 

The Australian squad had gathered in Brisbane for a week-long preparation camp before travelling to Darwin for the opening Test, but the first day itself brought worrying news for the hosts.

The Bangladesh will tour Australia for two Test matches. The first Test is scheduled from August 13 to 17 at Marrara Stadium in Darwin, while the second Test will be played from August 22 to 26 at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay.

Before the series begins, Bangladesh will play a three-day warm-up match against Cricket Australia XI in Darwin.

How Did Josh Inglis Get Injured?

Josh Inglis suffered the injury during an intra-squad practice game in Brisbane while Australia's Test squad was preparing for the Bangladesh series. The wicketkeeper-batter complained of discomfort after playing a shot and was soon forced to leave the field due to a back spasm.

According to reports from CodeSports, the injury is not severe, but given his history of back problems, the team management is expected to take a cautious approach for Josh Inglis. 

"Inglis has a history of back complaints and while the injury was not considered serious it was the last thing he needed after the squad assembled in Brisbane for a week of training.

While Inglis is not expected to play in next week’s first Test between Australia and Bangladesh in Darwin, Australia is entering a period where it will play potentially 21 Tests over the next 12 months so there is expected to be much change and opportunity for new talent." CodeSports reported.

As a result, Inglis is not expected to feature in the opening Test in Darwin. Australia will avoid taking any unnecessary risk, especially with a second Test still to come later in the month.

Also Read: Josh Inglis Compares Pakistan With Bangladesh After Australia’s Series Loss

Josh Inglis Injury Timeline in 2026

Although the latest back injury has raised concerns, Josh Inglis has largely remained available throughout 2026 despite a few minor setbacks.

• April 2026: It is important to mention that Inglis missed the early stage of IPL 2026 with  Lucknow Super Giants because of his wedding rather than injury.
• April End 2026: After returning to the IPL, the star player suffered a minor thumb and finger injury while fielding in the cash-rich league.
• May 2026: Recovering from injury, Inglis played in IPL 2026 and made 266 runs in 5 innings at an average of 53.20 and strike rate of 186.01. 
• June 2026: Late in May, Inglis was named captain of Australia's ODI squad for the Pakistan series after Mitchell Marsh was ruled out with an ankle injury. 

Why is Josh Inglis an important player for Australia vs Bangladesh?

Josh Inglis has become an important member of Australia's Test squad because of the balance and flexibility he offers. He can play as an aggressive middle-order batter while also serving as a dependable wicketkeeping option whenever required.

If Inglis is not available for the 1st Test, Australia might miss a player who is capable of playing spin well and can counter-attack under pressure, giving the middle order an extra dimension, particularly when quick runs are needed.

Also Read: After Rishabh Pant Exit, Aiden Markram Sends Clear Message On LSG Captaincy For IPL 2027