The intense rivalry between South Africa and Australia continues as Day 2 of the 1st Test of their 2026 series unfolds at Kingsmead in Durban.
With the series holding significant weight in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-2027 cycle, both teams are eager to establish dominance early. South Africa, the reigning WTC champions from 2025, will be keen to defend their title, while Australia, currently topping the WTC standings, aims to solidify their position.
This Test series marks Australia’s first red-ball tour to South Africa since the infamous 2018 ‘Sandpapergate’ scandal, adding an extra layer of narrative to the contest. Expectations are high for a hard-fought battle, with both sides showcasing formidable bowling attacks. Australia, led by Pat Cummins, will be without injured all-rounder Cameron Green and wicketkeeper Josh Inglis for this Test, seeing Nic Maddinson step into the batting lineup. For the Proteas, captain Temba Bavuma leads a strong squad, although the fitness of pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada remains a concern, with Anrich Nortje returning and Marques Ackerman expected to make his Test debut.
Match Timings (Day 2: October 10, 2026)
| Time Zone | Time | Local Date |
|---|---|---|
| SAST | 09:30 AM | October 10, 2026 |
| UTC | 07:30 AM | October 10, 2026 |
| IST | 01:00 PM | October 10, 2026 |
| BST | 08:30 AM | October 10, 2026 |
| EDT | 03:30 AM | October 10, 2026 |
| AEDT | 06:30 PM | October 10, 2026 |
Live Streaming and Telecast Details
Cricket fans around the globe can follow the action live through the following broadcasters and streaming platforms:
- India: Live telecast will be available on the Eurosport Network, with live streaming exclusively on the FanCode app and website.
- United Kingdom: Viewers can watch the match live on Sky Sports Cricket, with streaming options available via NOW.
- United States: Willow TV will broadcast the match live. Streaming options include Sling TV (Desi Binge Plus or Dakshin Flex plans).
- Australia: Fox Cricket, available through Foxtel, will telecast the match. Live streaming is provided by Kayo Sports. Radio commentary will be available via Sports Entertainment Network (SEN).
- South Africa: SuperSport will provide live telecast, while free-to-air coverage is available on SABC 3. Streaming can be accessed via the DStv app and SABC+ app.
Head-to-Head and Recent Form
Historically, Australia holds a significant edge in Test matches against South Africa, having won 54 out of 102 encounters, compared to South Africa’s 27 wins, with 21 draws. On South African soil, Australia also leads with 29 victories in 54 matches.
Recent form suggests a tightly contested series. South Africa enters this match with impressive momentum, having defeated India 2-0 in an away Test series in November 2025. Australia, while currently ranked first in the WTC standings, recently drew a home series against Bangladesh 1-1.
As Day 2 gets underway, expect another gripping day of Test cricket as these two powerhouses battle for supremacy and vital World Test Championship points in what promises to be a memorable series opener.