Smith ruled out as Australia make four changes

Steve Smith was ruled out of the series-deciding third Test against South Africa at Newlands after failing a late fitness test on his neck. Following the withdrawal, Australia made four changes to their starting XI, bringing in Josh Inglis, Cooper Connolly, Cameron Green, and Nathan Lyon. Captain Pat Cummins won the toss and elected to bowl first in Cape Town.

Connolly replaced Beau Webster to provide a spin option, while Scott Boland was omitted to facilitate Lyon's return. In the batting lineup, Matthew Renshaw moved back to open alongside Travis Head, Green slotted in at No. 4, and Inglis took the No. 5 spot. South Africa made just one change, with Gerald Coetzee replacing the injured Anrich Nortje.