# South Africa vs Australia 1st Test 2026

> The first Test between world cricket's top two sides arrives October 9-13, eight years after the ball-tampering scandal that still defines their rivalry.
- Title: South Africa vs Australia 1st Test 2026 · TechRadar | Shortify
- Summary: The first Test between world cricket's top two sides arrives October 9-13, eight years after the ball-tampering scandal that still defines their rivalry…
- Keywords: south africa cricket, australia cricket, test cricket, ball-tampering scandal, steve smith, temba bavuma, technology, South, Africa, Australia, 1st, Test
- Source: TechRadar — https://techradar.com/how-to-watch/cricket/south-africa-vs-australia-2026-1st-test
- Published: 2026-10-09T06:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: south africa cricket, australia cricket, test cricket, ball-tampering scandal, steve smith, temba bavuma, technology
## The fixture and the scandal
South Africa hosts Australia in the first Test of a three-match series from October 9 to 13.
## Smith returns to the scene
Steve Smith is the only member of that trio still in the Australia setup. The thirty-seven-year-old batter received a twelve-month ban for his role in the ball-tampering affair and will likely face criticism from South…
## Australia's squad and absences
Marnus Labuschagne scored his first century in any form of cricket for a year in warmup play and should keep his place at first drop.
## South Africa's lineup and hopes
Temba Bavuma will lead South Africa.Marques Ackerman is expected to make his debut at number three.
## How to watch the match
Sky Sports shows the match in the UK, Willow TV via Sling in the US, and Kayo Sports in Australia.Kayo Sports offers a seven-day free trial for Australian viewers.
## Key takeaway

South Africa hosts Australia in the first of a three-match Test series starting October 9, with the 2018 ball-tampering scandal still looming over the fixture.