South Africa and Australia are set for a decisive battle in the third and final Test of their 2026 series, beginning on October 27 at Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town. With the series level at 1-1, both teams will be determined to finish the contest with a victory.
Australia won the opening Test in Durban by 214 runs, but South Africa responded emphatically in Gqeberha, securing an innings-and-31-run victory to level the series. The final Test now presents both sides with an opportunity to take control of the contest and strengthen their World Test Championship campaigns.
SA vs AUS 3rd Test: Match Details
Match: South Africa vs Australia, 3rd Test
Series: Australia tour of South Africa, 2026
Date: October 27–31, 2026
Venue: Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town
Start time: 2:00 PM IST
Series score: 1-1
South Africa Team News
South Africa will be without fast bowler Anrich Nortje, who has been ruled out of the series decider with a groin injury. Gerald Coetzee, Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch are among the possible replacements.
Captain Temba Bavuma will look to build on his outstanding 179 in the second Test. All-rounder Marco Jansen is another major threat after scoring 85 and taking five wickets in that match. Kagiso Rabada's return has also strengthened the Proteas' bowling attack.
Australia Team News
Australia are considering changes to their batting order after struggling in the second Test. Matthew Renshaw is in contention to open alongside Travis Head, while Nic Maddinson has been released from the squad.
Cameron Green and Josh Inglis are available again after recovering from injuries. However, Green is expected to be used as a specialist batter because he has not been cleared to bowl. Steve Smith's fitness will also be monitored after he experienced neck stiffness.
SA vs AUS 3rd Test: Probable Playing XI
South Africa: Aiden Markram, Marques Ackerman, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (c), Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson.
Australia: Travis Head, Matthew Renshaw, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Josh Inglis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland, Josh Hazlewood.
Players to Watch and Match Prediction
Marco Jansen could again prove decisive with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. For Australia, Cameron Green's return could provide greater stability to a batting order looking for a strong response.
Newlands has traditionally offered assistance to fast bowlers, making the opening sessions particularly important. South Africa will have home advantage and confidence after their emphatic second-Test win, while Australia possess an experienced pace attack.
South Africa may hold a slight advantage if their fast bowlers exploit the conditions, but Australia's experience makes this series decider difficult to call.
