Australia are set to return to Test cricket in South Africa for the first time since the notorious Sandpapergate scandal in 2018, a chapter that shook the sport and Australian cricket to its core. Ahead of the Tests, the Aussies are scheduled to play three ODIs from September 24 to 30.
The opening Test will take place from October 9 at Kingsmead in Durban, followed by the second Test at St George’s Park in Gqeberha from October 18. The third and final Test is scheduled at Newlands in Cape Town from October 27, returning to the venue where the scandal originally unfolded.
HOW THE SANDPAPERGATE AFFECTED AUSTRALIA CRICKET
The 2018 balltampering incident saw Cameron Bancroft caught attempting to alter the ball with sandpaper. Captain Steve Smith, vice-captain David Warner, and Bancroft were swiftly sanctioned—Smith and Warner with 12-month bans, and Bancroft with a nine-month suspension. Following the scandal, Smith stepped down as captain, with Tim Paine taking over the leadership role, while vice-captain Warner also relinquished his position.
The fallout extended beyond the players, prompting Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland to publicly apologise and launch a cultural review. The incident ultimately led to the resignation of Sutherland and several senior officials. Head coach Darren Lehmann, though cleared of direct involvement, also stepped down to allow the team a fresh start.
SMITH SET FOR CAPETOWN RETURN
While David Warner has retired, Steve Smith is set to return to Newlands after eight years. Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, and Mitchell Starc, who were part of the 2018 Newlands Test, are also set to make a comeback to Cape Town.
Australia will look to bounce back after a disappointing campaign in the Men’s T20 World Cup, where they failed to qualify for the Super 8s. Losses to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, combined with the washed-out match between Ireland and Zimbabwe in Pallekele, ultimately saw them crash out of the tournament.
Australia’s tour of South Africa 2026
ODI Series
1st ODI: September 24, Kingsmead Stadium, Durban
2nd ODI: September 27, Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
3rd ODI: September 30, JB Marks Oval, Potchefstroom (D/N)
Test Series
1st Test: October 9-13, Kingsmead Stadium, Durban
2nd Test: October 18-22, St George’s Park, Gqeberha
3rd Test: October 27-31, Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town
