South Africa’s Gerald Coetzee (REUTERS)
South Africa have made one change to their playing XI for the third and deciding Test against Australia, bringing in fast bowler Gerald Coetzee in place of the injured Anrich Nortje for the series decider at Newlands in Cape Town. Captain Temba Bavuma will lead the Proteas in the crucial encounter as the reigning World Test Championship winners look to build on their emphatic comeback in the second Test and clinch the three-match series. Nortje’s injury has forced South Africa into a change in their pace attack, with Coetzee handed an opportunity to feature in the series finale. The fast bowler will join Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen and Wiaan Mulder as South Africa look to maintain the bowling intensity that helped them level the series in Gqeberha.
The hosts bounced back strongly after losing the opening Test, registering an innings-and-31-run victory in the second match to make it 1-1. South Africa’s bowling unit delivered a decisive performance in the second Test, dismissing Australia for just 99 in the first innings before completing the victory after the visitors were forced to follow on. Their dominant performance has set up a winner-takes-all contest in Cape Town, where both teams will be eager to finish the series with a victory. Marco Jansen claimed five wickets in Australia’s first innings, while Rabada and Mulder played important roles in wrapping up the contest. Coetzee’s presence could prove valuable as South Africa attempt to exploit the conditions at Newlands and prevent Australia from regaining control of the series. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines
South Africa’s confirmed playing XI for the third Test is Aiden Markram, Marques Ackerman, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (captain), Matthew Breetzke, Ryan Rickelton (wicketkeeper), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Simon Harmer, Gerald Coetzee and Kagiso Rabada. For Australia, the focus will be on producing a more consistent batting performance after their collapse in Gqeberha. The visitors will also be determined to respond after surrendering their advantage in the series. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.