South Africa hosts Australia in ODI cricket series

South Africa and Australia are beginning a One Day International (ODI) series running from September 24 to 30, 2026. The matches are scheduled to take place in Durban, Johannesburg, and Potchefstroom. This series serves as a critical preparation period for the 2027 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, which will be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

The South African squad faces significant injury challenges, with fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Ottneil Baartman, and Kwena Maphaka all sidelined due to hamstring injuries. This places increased responsibility on players like Gerald Coetzee and Marco Jansen. South Africa is led by captain Temba Bavuma.

Australia arrives with momentum following a sweep of Zimbabwe. While captain Pat Cummins is expected to miss the opening match in Durban, Mitchell Marsh is slated to lead the side. The Australian squad includes key players such as Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. The series opener at Kingsmead is expected to favor seamers due to the pitch offering pace and bounce.