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The much-anticipated three-match ODI series between South Africa and Australia is set to begin on September 24 at Kingsmead in Durban, with both teams looking to strengthen their squads and strategies ahead of the next phase of the international cricket calendar.
South Africa enter the series after completing a 3-0 ODI sweep over Namibia, while Australia also arrive on the back of a convincing 3-0 series victory against Zimbabwe. The Proteas have enjoyed considerable success in recent bilateral ODI meetings, winning their last five series against Australia. However, both sides have been forced to make significant adjustments following retirements and a string of injuries.
South Africa hit by major pace-bowling crisis
South Africa’s biggest concern heading into the series is the severe shortage of experienced fast bowlers. The hosts will be without Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Ottneil Baartman and Kwena Maphaka, with all four unavailable because of hamstring injuries.
The absence of such a significant portion of their first-choice pace attack has forced South Africa to look toward less experienced options. Lizaad Williams has been added to the squad, while uncapped pacers Nqobani Mokoena and Duan Jansen have also received opportunities.
Meanwhile, Gerald Coetzee is back in the ODI setup for the first time since the 2023 World Cup, giving the hosts an experienced option to strengthen their depleted bowling department.
South Africa have received a boost with the inclusion of experienced batters Quinton de Kock and David Miller, despite neither player being on a national central contract. However, the hosts will be without Aiden Markram for the opening ODI as he remains unavailable due to personal reasons.
Australia face key selection changes
Australia, meanwhile, are entering a new phase in their ODI setup following the retirements of Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell. Their absence leaves the visitors with important gaps to fill as they reshape their 50-over side.
Captain Pat Cummins will also miss the series opener after arriving in South Africa later than the rest of the squad. Australia are expected to carefully manage their leading fast bowlers, with Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood being rotated during the white-ball leg to ensure they remain fresh for the upcoming Test series. Australia have also lost Billy Stanlake, who has returned home with a side strain, while Spencer Johnson is unavailable. Their departures have opened the door for New South Wales all-rounder Jack Edwards, who has joined the touring party.
Also READ: Top 5 best bowling figures in South Africa vs Australia ODI series ft. Cooper Connolly
SA vs AUS, ODI series, Fixtures
| Date | Match Details | Timings (IST, GMT and Local) |
|---|---|---|
| Thu, Sep 24 2026 | 1st ODI – Durban, Kingsmead South Africa vs Australia | 1:30 PM IST / 8:00 AM GMT / 10:00 AM Local |
| Sun, Sep 27 2026 | 2nd ODI – Johannesburg, The Wanderers Stadium South Africa vs Australia | 1:30 PM IST / 8:00 AM GMT / 10:00 AM Local |
| Wed, Sep 30 2026 | 3rd ODI – Potchefstroom, Senwes Park South Africa vs Australia | 5:00 PM IST / 11:30 AM GMT / 1:30 PM Local |
Broadcast and Live Streaming details
- Australia: Fox Cricket; Kayo Sports
- South Africa: Super Sport; DStv Stream
- India: Eurosport India
- USA and Canada: Willow TV (sign up here)
- Sri Lanka: ThePapare 1 & 3 HD; Dialog Play App
- Pakistan: Tapmad
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports Cricket
Also READ: Top 5 highest individual scores in South Africa vs Australia ODI series ft. Quinton de Kock
