SA vs AUS: Cricket fans across the globe anticipate a monumental clash. Australia prepare for a historic return to South African soil during the 2026–27 season. This tour represents the first time the Australian Test squad has set foot in the Republic for a red-ball series since 2018.
That Cape Town incident fundamentally altered the landscape of the sport. Although the visiting side have participated in limited-overs fixtures in the interim, the return to Newlands carries immense weight. This third and final Test holds great symbolic value for both nations.
The schedule begins with a three-match ODI series. It starts on September 24 at Kingsmead in Durban. Matches in Johannesburg and Potchefstroom follow. Then, the focus shifts to the longest format. The two most recent World Test Championship winners battle for the top spot in a three-match series.
Pat Cummins leads a seasoned bowling attack featuring Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, and Josh Hazlewood. All of these players played through the chaotic events of the previous decade. Steve Smith is still a key part of the batting order. However, with retired stars like David Warner and Tim Paine gone, a new chapter begins for this fierce rivalry.
Following a two-day warm-up match in Potchefstroom, the first Test starts on 9 October in Durban. The teams then move to Gqeberha and finally Cape Town. Australia currently sit at the top of the World Test Championship standings.
These matches represent a huge hurdle in their quest to keep the title. Meanwhile, South Africa want to prove they can still dominate at home. They haven't hosted many series lately. This important matchup gives the Proteas a perfect chance to stop Australia's momentum and climb the rankings.
ODI Series Schedule
- First ODI: September 24 – Kingsmead Stadium, Durban
- Second ODI: September 27 – Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
- Third ODI: September 30 – JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom (day/night)
Warm-up Match
- October 3–4 – JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom
Test Series Schedule
- First Test: October 9–13 – Kingsmead Stadium, Durban
- Second Test: October 18–22 – St George’s Park, Gqeberha
- Third Test: October 27–31 – Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town
