Australia give Steve Smith chance to prove fitness ahead of South Africa series decider

Australia will give Steve Smith every opportunity to prove his fitness ahead of Tuesday's decisive third Test against South Africa at Newlands in Cape Town. Smith suffered a neck injury during South Africa's innings-and-31-run victory in the second Test at Gqeberha, which leveled the series at 1-1. Captain Pat Cummins confirmed the team wants to wait on Smith's status before finalizing the playing eleven.

Cameron Green is preferred in the middle order, with Matt Renshaw expected to open alongside Travis Head following Nic Maddinson's omission. Meanwhile, Marnus Labuschagne is set to retain his spot despite a 47-innings century drought, with team management valuing his ability to absorb pressure against the new ball.