Written By: Alex Maathai

Australia’s tour of South Africa runs September 24 to October 31, 2026 — three ODIs in Durban, Johannesburg and Potchefstroom, then three Tests in Durban, Gqeberha and Cape Town as part of the WTC 2025–27 cycle.

Pat Cummins leads Australia’s Tests, Mitchell Marsh their ODIs, with Temba Bavuma captaining South Africa. Here’s every match date and exactly where to stream it, with a dedicated section for South African fans.

Australia Tour of South Africa 2026: Key Details at a Glance

The Australia Tour of South Africa 2026 features a mix of ODI and Test matches between the two teams. Get the full schedule, squads, venues, and match details for the tour.

DetailInformation
Tour DatesSeptember 24 – October 31, 2026
Format3 ODIs, 3 Tests
Test Series ContextPart of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle
Australia CaptainsPat Cummins (Test), Mitchell Marsh (ODI)
South Africa CaptainTemba Bavuma (both formats)

Where to Watch Australia vs South Africa 2026: TV Channels and Streaming Worldwide

This section covers where to watch Australia vs South Africa 2026, including TV channels and live streaming options across different countries.

Country / RegionTV ChannelLive Streaming
South AfricaSABC 3, SuperSport CricketSABC+, DStv Stream
AustraliaFox CricketKayo Sports
IndiaEurosportJioHotstar, FanCode
United KingdomSky Sports CricketSky Go, NOW
USA & CanadaNot availablePrime Video (Willow TV add-on)
Pakistan & BangladeshNot availableTapmad
Central & Sub-Saharan AfricaSuperSport Variety / SuperSport CricketDStv Stream

How to Watch Australia vs South Africa 2026 Live Streaming in South Africa

South African fans have it easier than most. All three ODIs are being shown free-to-air on SABC 3, with SABC+ carrying the same coverage online for anyone without a satellite dish or aerial. It’s the most accessible way to follow the series without paying for a subscription.

Australia vs South Africa 2026 Live Streaming
Source: Broadband TV News

For fans who want the fuller experience — extra camera angles, expert analysis, and every ball of the Tests as well — SuperSport Cricket on DStv remains the go-to option. DStv Stream brings that same SuperSport coverage to phones, tablets, and smart TVs, so you’re not tied to a decoder at home.

Between SABC+ for free access and DStv Stream for the full SuperSport package, South African viewers have both a no-cost option and a premium one covering every match of the tour.

Match Start Times: South Africa vs Australia 2026

Country / Region1st & 2nd ODI3rd ODI (D/N)
South Africa (SAST)10:00 AM1:30 PM
Australia (AEST)6:00 PM9:30 PM
India (IST)1:30 PM5:00 PM
United Kingdom (BST)9:00 AM12:30 PM
USA & Canada (EDT)4:00 AM7:30 AM

Test match start times shift slightly once Australian daylight saving kicks in on October 4. Australian viewers should double-check local times for the 2nd and 3rd Tests specifically.

Full Match Dates: Australia vs South Africa 2026

Australia vs South Africa 2026 brings both teams together for a series of ODI and Test matches. Get the schedule, squads, venues, and key match details in one place.

MatchDateVenue
1st ODISeptember 24Kingsmead, Durban
2nd ODISeptember 27The Wanderers, Johannesburg
3rd ODI (D/N)September 30Senwes Park, Potchefstroom
1st TestOctober 9–13Kingsmead, Durban
2nd TestOctober 18–22St George’s Park, Gqeberha
3rd TestOctober 27–31Newlands, Cape Town

Conclusion

Three ODIs, three Tests, and a full month of cricket — that’s the Australia tour of South Africa 2026, running September 24 to October 31 across five South African cities.

SABC 3 and SABC+ keep the ODIs free for South African fans, while SuperSport and DStv Stream cover every ball of the entire tour for those who want the complete experience.

FAQs

When does the Australia tour of South Africa 2026 start?

The tour begins with the 1st ODI on September 24, 2026, at Kingsmead, Durban, and ends with the 3rd Test at Newlands on October 31.

How can I watch the series for free in South Africa?

All three ODIs are broadcast free-to-air on SABC 3, with SABC+ providing the same coverage online at no cost.

What’s the best option for South African fans who want every match, including the Tests?

SuperSport Cricket on DStv covers the full tour, with DStv Stream offering the same coverage on mobile and smart TV devices.

Is there a free-to-air option for the Tests in South Africa?

No — the free SABC 3/SABC+ coverage applies to the three ODIs only. The Test series is available through SuperSport and DStv Stream.

What time do matches start in South Africa?

The 1st and 2nd ODIs start at 10:00 AM SAST, with the day-night 3rd ODI starting at 1:30 PM SAST.

About the Author

Alex Maathai is a Cape Town-based cricket analyst and former club-level player. With deep knowledge of domestic structures and Proteas history, he provides context-rich insights that connect today’s matches to South Africa’s cricket legacy.

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