CAPE TOWN: Josh Inglis scored a second test century to help Australia to a 100-run first innings lead against South Africa at Newlands on Thursday, having only been told he would play in the decisive third test when he arrived at the ground on the first morning.
Inglis matched the 102 he scored against Sri Lanka on his test debut last year as he batted superbly with Alex Carey (80) to put Australia in command of the match.
Leeds-born Inglis, 31, came into the side when experienced batter Steve Smith pulled out on the morning of the first day with a neck injury.
"It wasn't ideal preparation (for the game), but Steve had been dealing with his neck issue for a while, so in my mind I was always preparing to play, just in case," Inglis told reporters. "He came down to the ground early, had a hit and didn't feel comfortable enough to play. I found out I was in the team once we got to the ground."
