Durban: South Africa and Australia will begin their three-match Test series on Friday, October 9, at Kingsmead in Durban, with the opening match carrying important implications for the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings.
The first Test is scheduled to begin at 1 pm Indian Standard Time (IST)with the toss expected at 12.30 pm. Indian cricket fans can watch the match live on Eurosport, while online streaming will be available through FanCode.
The series marks Australia’s return to Test cricket in South Africa for the first time since the 2018 tour, which was overshadowed by the ball-tampering controversy. The two sides last met in the 2025 World Test Championship final at Lord’s, where South Africa defeated Australia to claim their maiden WTC title.
South Africa vs Australia 1st Test: Match details
- Match: South Africa vs Australia, 1st Test
- Date: Friday, October 9, to Tuesday, October 13, 2026
- Venue: Kingsmead, Durban, South Africa
- Start time: 1 pm IST
- Toss: 12.30 pm IST
- Live TV broadcast in India: Eurosport
- Live streaming in India: FanCode app and website
The match is scheduled over five days, with the final day set for October 13 if the game lasts its full duration. The actual length will depend on the match situation and whether a result is reached earlier.
Where to watch South Africa vs Australia live in India
Indian viewers can follow the first Test through the following options:
Live television: Eurosport will broadcast the South Africa-Australia Test series in India.
Online streaming: The match will be available on the FanCode app and website. Viewers should check the platform for the relevant match listing and any subscription or pass requirements.
Fans who cannot watch the live broadcast can follow score updates and match coverage through sports news websites.
South Africa look to build on WTC success
South Africa enter the series as the reigning World Test Championship winners after beating Australia in the 2025 final at Lord’s.
Captain Temba Bavuma will lead the hosts as they look to continue their strong run in Test cricket. Australia, led by Pat Cummins, will be keen to respond after losing the previous WTC final.
The three-Test series is significant for the current WTC cycle. Australia and South Africa were among the leading teams in the standings before the series, making the contest an important opportunity to collect points early in the championship campaign.
Kagiso Rabada ruled out of the opening Test
South Africa have confirmed that fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will miss the first Test as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury.
In his absence, Anrich Nortje returns to the Test side for the first time since March 2023. South Africa have also opted for two specialist spinners, Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, in their playing XI.
David Bedingham is set to return to the side, while Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton are expected to open the batting. The team combination reflects South Africa’s assessment of conditions at Kingsmead.
Australia will rely on their experienced pace attack and established batting lineup, with captain Pat Cummins leading a squad featuring Steve Smith, Travis Head, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon.
South Africa vs Australia: Full Test series schedule
The three-match series will be played at venues across South Africa.
| Match | Dates | Venue | Start time (IST) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | October 9–13 | Kingsmead, Durban | 1 pm |
| 2nd Test | October 18–22 | St George’s Park, Gqeberha | 1.30 pm |
| 3rd Test | October 27–31 | Newlands, Cape Town | 2 pm |
The opening match begins at 1 pm IST, while the scheduled start times for the second and third Tests are later in the day. A key early contest in the World Test Championship
With both teams looking to strengthen their position in the 2025–27 WTC cycle, the Durban Test offers an important early opportunity to gain championship points.
South Africa will aim to make the most of home conditions, while Australia will look to draw on their depth in batting and fast bowling. The first Test will also provide an early indication of how both teams approach the series following their previous meeting in the WTC final.
Cricket fans in India can tune in from 1 pm IST on Friday, October 9, with live television coverage on Eurosport and streaming through FanCode.