South Africa hosts Australia in first Test at Kingsmead on October 9
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 7, 2026, 3:50 AM
Last updated Oct 7, 2026
South Africa will face Australia in the first Test of three at Kingsmead, Durban, starting on October 9 at 9:30 a.m. local time. Australia is currently leading the ICC World Test Championship standings, while South Africa holds the title after a victory in the 2025 final. Kagiso Rabada's participation is uncertain due to a hamstring injury, and Anrich Nortje is back in the squad. Australia will be without Josh Inglis and Cameron Green, impacting their batting depth. The groundsmen expect the pitch to play a crucial role, given previous performances recorded there.
- •South Africa won the 2025 final against Australia by five wickets.
- •Kagiso Rabada's fitness remains a concern ahead of the first Test.
- •Australia's Josh Inglis and Cameron Green are unavailable due to injuries.
- •The match will start at 9:30 a.m. local time on October 9.
- •Kingsmead has a history of unpredictable pitch conditions affecting outcomes.
- 3:50 AMYahoo Sports — Prediction: South Africa vs. Australia 1st Test lineups and pitch report for Kingsmead, Durban — Who do you think will win?
"Read our South Africa vs. Australia 1st Test prediction, predicted lineups and Kingsmead pitch report, plus who we think will win the Durban opener on October 9.
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