SA vs AUS 2026: South Africa Name 18-Member Test Squad For Australia Series, Kagiso Rabada Returns

South Africa have announced an 18-member Test squad for their upcoming home series against Australia, with Temba Bavuma set to lead the side in the three-match contest.

The biggest boost for the Proteas is the return of Kagiso Rabada, who comes back to the red-ball squad after nearly a year away due to rib and hamstring injuries.

Rabada’s return strengthens a pace attack that also includes Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Corbin Bosch and Anrich Nortje. Nortje is set to play his first home Test series against Australia.

Dane Paterson has also earned a recall after two years. His experience gives South Africa another option in the pace department as they prepare for a tough series at home.

The batting group features Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham. Marques Ackermann and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne are also part of the squad.

All-rounder Wiaan Mulder has been included, while the spin options are led by Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy and Simon Harmer.

The three-match Test series will begin on October 9 and will be played in Durban, Gqeberha and Cape Town. It will follow the ongoing ODI series between the two teams.

The series is part of the 2025-2027 World Test Championship cycle. It will also be the first time South Africa host Australia for a Test series in eight years, with the previous home series between the teams coming in 2018.

South Africa Test squad: Temba Bavuma (captain), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Marques Ackermann, Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Gerald Coetzee, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson.