Australia drew first blood in Durban before South Africa bounced back in Gqeberha. Temba Bavuma led the response with a superb 179, while Marco Jansen delivered an influential all-round performance to help the hosts level the series. South Africa will now look to carry that momentum into the final Test.
Australia captain Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to bowl, pointing to moisture in the surface. Bavuma, however, was content to bat first, backing his team to negotiate the new ball and capitalise on the scoring opportunities available.
The Newlands pitch features some grass but has been rolled into a hard surface, with good carry expected. Conditions could become more favourable for batting as the match progresses, while spin may also come into play later in the Test.
Australia have made four changes, with Cameron Green, Matt Renshaw, Cooper Connolly and Josh Inglis among the players brought into the XI. Steve Smith’s fitness was a concern before the toss, while South Africa have included Gerald Coetzee after Anrich Nortje’s injury.
With the series title and the top ranking at stake, both teams know the importance of delivering across five days. The contest in Cape Town will determine which side finishes the series on top.
