Australia Squad For South Africa: Australia has announced the squad for the Test series against South Africa starting from October 9.
Australia announces squad for South Africa series.
Australia has announced a 16-member squad for the Test series against South Africa. The Test series begins on October 9th. Marnus Labuschagne has been a surprise addition to the squad. Despite his consistently poor form, Labuschagne has retained his place in the Test team.
Australia selected the same squad for South Africa as for the second Test against Bangladesh. However, Cooper Connolly, Michael Neser, and Matthew Kuhnemann have been included. Labuschagne hasn't scored a century since the 2023 Ashes series, so his place in the team has been in constant question.
Bangladesh crushed the Kangaroos in the first Test, prompting Australia to make changes to the top order. Matthew Renshaw replaced Jack Weatherald. Renshaw has once again been given more importance than Weatherald. All-rounder Beau Webster, who failed in both Tests against Bangladesh, has also retained his place.
Australia squad: Pat Cummins (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh English, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster
This is the first time the Australian team will be touring South Africa for a Test series since 2018. Returning to South Africa after eight years, the Australian team consists of only five players: Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Steve Smith, Josh Mitchell Starc, and Matthew Renshaw, who played in the 2018 series.
The first Test between Australia and South Africa will be played in Durban from October 9, the second in Gqeberha from October 18, and the final match of the series will be played in Johannesburg from October 27. Prior to the Test series, the two sides will play three ODIs, scheduled for September 24, 27, and 30.
WTC table situation
Looking at the World Test Championship standings, Australia currently sits atop the standings. Australia's PCT is 80, and a win over South Africa would move them one step closer to the final. South Africa, meanwhile, is second with a PCT of 75. The 2025 final was played between these teams, where South Africa created history with a memorable victory.
