South Africa and Australia renew rivalry in Durban ODI opener
South Africa and Australia open a three-match men's one-day international series in Durban on 24 September 2026.
First ball at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium is scheduled for 10am local time, which is 6pm AEST, in what is billed as the first of three 50-over games — one innings of 50 overs per side — on this tour. The Guardian
The stakes are simple. The next Cricket World Cup is little more than 12 months away, jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Every ODI from here counts as preparation, selection and fine-tuning.
Recent history favours the hosts. South Africa have won the past five ODI series against Australia, home and away, going back to September 2016. Australia arrive in Durban with momentum of their own, though, after sweeping a three-match ODI series in Zimbabwe to tune up for this trip.
The two sides know each other well. They last played an ODI series just over a year ago, when the tourists won the opening two games in Cairns and Mackay. Australia took the consolation game in that series with 431-2, their second-highest ODI total behind the famous 434-4 against South Africa.
For fans, this means a familiar tension. South Africa have had Australia's number in this format for a decade. Australia have the power to post a giant total on any given day.
Team news adds to the intrigue. Temba Bavuma is back to lead South Africa's ODI squad against Australia, according to Cricket.com.au. South Africa will be without fast bowler Lungi Ngidi, ruled out of the series with a right hamstring injury, the ICC reported.
There is more to come after Durban. The sides are scheduled to play further 50-over games on 27 and 30 September, with the second ODI set for Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. The wider Qantas Tour of South Africa 2026 also includes three Tests, with South Africa entering the summer as reigning Test champions.
