Marnus Labuschagne gets another chance at No. 3

The biggest talking point from Australia’s selection is the continued faith in Marnus Labuschagne. The right-hander has endured a difficult period with the bat, and there had been growing speculation that he could be left out of the squad. His recent omission from Australia’s white-ball teams for the Zimbabwe and South Africa assignments had only intensified questions over his international future. However, the selectors have decided against making a drastic call in Test cricket.

Labuschagne’s prolonged search for a Test century remains a concern. His most recent hundred came in Manchester three years ago, leaving the No. 3 batter under considerable pressure to deliver. The South Africa series could therefore prove particularly important as he looks to rediscover the consistency that once made him one of Australia’s most dependable Test batters.

Cooper Connolly returns as Matthew Kuhnemann and Michael Neser added

Australia have also strengthened their squad with three additions. Cooper Connolly returns to the Test setup after making his debut against Sri Lanka last year. The talented all-rounder currently has only one Test appearance under his belt and will be eager to add to that tally.

Left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann has also been included, giving captain Pat Cummins another spin option alongside veteran off-spinner Nathan Lyon. His ability to turn the ball away from right-handers could provide Australia with a useful tactical alternative during the series.

Michael Neser is the other new addition. The experienced all-rounder returns after missing Australia’s Bangladesh fixtures because of a calf injury. Neser comes into the squad after an impressive Ashes campaign in 2025-26, when he claimed 15 wickets across three matches. Interestingly, Neser was born in South Africa, adding another layer to what promises to be an intriguing return to the country.

Matt Renshaw retained as Travis Head’s opening partner

Matthew Renshaw has also been given another opportunity at the top of the order. He retained his place after replacing Jake Weatherald following Australia’s defeat to Bangladesh in Darwin. Renshaw’s selection is largely supported by his Sheffield Shield form from the previous season, when he scored three centuries in 10 innings. His return to the Test side did not begin spectacularly, though, as he managed only eight runs in his sole innings during the Mackay Test.

Despite that modest outing, the selectors have continued to back him as Travis Head‘s opening partner for the South Africa tour.

The opening Test is scheduled to begin at Kingsmead in Durban on October 9. The teams will then meet at St. George’s Park in Gqeberha from October 18, before the series concludes at Newlands in Cape Town on October 27.

Australia Test squad for South Africa tour: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster.