Australia face selection challenges after the retirement of two legends, Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell, who bowed out following the 2025 Champions Trophy semi-final loss to India. With their absence, Cameron Green returns to the squad and could feature at No.3 or in the middle order. A decision also awaits on whether Josh Hazlewood will play, given his heavy workload in the three-match T20I series.
For South Africa, Temba Bavuma returns as captain after lifting the World Test Championship mace against Australia earlier this year. While young quick Maphaka may have to wait for his ODI debut due to the availability of Nandre Burger, rising star Dewald Brevis gets his chance in the playing XI.
Australia Playing XI: Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Josh Inglis (w), Alex Carey, Aaron Hardie, Ben Dwarshuis, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood
South Africa Playing XI: Aiden Markram (w), Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma (c), Matthew Breetzke, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis, Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Prenelan Subrayen, Nandre Burger, Lungi Ngidi.