In a nod to renewed cricketing ties, Australia is slated to visit South Africa during September-October 2026, featuring three ODIs and three Tests as per Cricket South Africa’s freshly announced 2026-27 itinerary. This tour revives memories of the 2018 Cape Town Test marred by ball-tampering allegations that led to bans for key Australian players.
ODI action begins in Durban’s Kingsmead on September 24, shifts to Johannesburg’s Wanderers on September 27, and concludes at Potchefstroom’s JB Marks Oval on September 30. A preparatory two-day warm-up awaits on October 3-4 in Potchefstroom.
The Test leg intensifies proceedings: Durban hosts the opener from October 9-13, Port Elizabeth’s St George’s Park takes the second from October 18-22, and Cape Town’s iconic Newlands closes the series October 27-31.
Several 2018 tour veterans remain in contention for selection – Pat Cummins as skipper, alongside Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, and Josh Hazlewood. David Warner’s retirement post-ban and Cameron Bancroft’s diminished prospects shift the team dynamic.
Preceding this, Australia’s August home series against Bangladesh in northern territories will sharpen their edge. This tour not only tests current form but also symbolizes healing from past wounds, with both nations eyeing World Test Championship points and bragging rights in a storied rivalry.