Anrich Nortje returns to the South African Test XI for the first time since March 2023, bolstering the side as they prepare to host Australia in Durban. This opening match in the three-game series serves as a critical junction in the 2025-27 World Test Championship rankings, where Australia currently holds the top position ahead of South Africa. The series arrives with history in focus, as South Africa secured their first ever World Test Championship title last year by defeating Australia by five wickets behind a century from Aiden Markram. Both teams hold an even historical record in recent years, with each side winning four of the last nine series contested against one another.
For followers of the World Test Championship, this series is a vital opportunity for both nations to accumulate points and solidify their standings on the table. The matchup also rekindles long-standing competitive tensions that date back to the 2018 series. With the series debut at Kingsmead, both teams look to move past recent setbacks and assert dominance in the current cycle.
South Africa’s confirmed lineup includes Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, captain Temba Bavuma, Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj, and Anrich Nortje. Kagiso Rabada remains unavailable as he recovers from an injury. Australia enters the contest with two notable omissions: Cameron Green is sidelined with an abdominal strain sustained during the ODI series, and Josh Inglis is out due to a fractured finger.
Play is set to commence at 9:30 a.m. local time on Friday, October 9. In India, viewers can follow the action via the Eurosport TV Network or stream the coverage through the FanCode app and website.