PETER Nevill will become Australia’s 443rd Test cricketer after veteran gloveman Brad Haddin ruled himself out the second Test against England at Lord’s, beginning tomorrow, for family reasons.

Haddin did not take part in Australia’s lengthy training session at the Home of Cricket yesterday morning but, having completed his team’s warm-up at the famous ground, he remained in the visiting team’s dressing room where he was seen in earnest discussion with coach Darren Lehmann.
By contrast, 29-year-old Nevill was conspicuous by the amount of work he did with the gloves and with the bat, although confirmation of Haddin’s sudden absence did not arrive until hours after the session had been completed and the team had returned to their London hotel.
Nevill will become the first Australia Test player to receive his Baggy Green cap at Lord’s since current vice-captain Steve Smith and another former ’keeper Tim Paine both made their debut there against Pakistan in 2010. And they were the first Australians to do so in more than 30 years
Contrary to rumours sweeping Lord’s earlier in the day as a series of mini conferences were held among Australia players and support staff at the nursery nets, Haddin will remain with the team in London.
However, a CA spokesperson said he would not be making any further comment on the matter.