After a tight first two Tests, Australia are tied 1-1 heading into the third Test at Newlands, however doubts have emerged around Smith’s availability after he had neck issues in the second Test.

Meanwhile Cameron Green will be looking to come into the playing XI. South Africa have welcomed Gerald Coetzee into their squad due to Anrich Nortje being ruled out of the series due to a groin injury.

Both teams will look to balance their best options as Newlands is expected to provide a different pitch.

Doubts Over Smith’s Availability

Smith has failed to fully train on Sunday after experiencing some neck stiffness in the second Test. The veteran only participated in a light training session after some gentle throw downs.

However, coach Andrew McDonald has said that Smith should be available. However, Australia have dropped Nic Maddinson and reserve wicketkeeper Sam Harper.

Matt Renshaw looks to be the main candidate to replace either of these men with the opening batsman having a strong first Test.

Cameron Green may also come into the side as a specialist batter after recovering from an abdominal injury.

Josh Inglis could also come into the XI after recovering from a broken finger. The addition of Marnus Labuschagne providing only 127 runs in four innings puts more pressure on Australia.

South Africa Make One Change

South Africa have made one change to the Gqeberha winning side, welcoming Gerald Coetzee into the squad after Anrich Nortje was ruled out of the series due to a groin injury.

Nortje bowled only 3.3 overs in Australia’s first innings before suffering the injury, which is unfortunate for his Test comeback. Coetzee will come into his first Test since November 2024.

However, he hasn’t bowled much in first class cricket so will need to be handled carefully. The hosts have again chosen Simon Harmer over Keshav Maharaj with the off-spinner preferred due to the tough left-handed batting line-up Australia have.

Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, David Bedingham, Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada have all been included in South Africa’s XI.

Australia will have to choose between Scott Boland and Nathan Lyon but it is likely the pitch will provide late turn.

The Newlands Showdown Could Be Key In WTC

The Newlands pitch could provide a different game as Australian wicketkeeper Alex Carey has stated that the pitch looked shorter.

Australia enter the match ranked number one in the WTC and ICC Test rankings. This means the result is very important for the visitors.

South Africa, riding high after last time, will want to strengthen their chances of making it into another WTC final.

After eight years, Australia will return to Newlands after the infamous ball tampering scandal in 2018. However, the focus will be on the game itself.

Smith’s availability, Green’s inclusion and Coetzee’s return could all play a part in the outcome of this high stakes match.