Australian captain Pat Cummins won the toss and opted to bowl first against South Africa. Invited South Africa to bat.

The Australian cricket gears up for a crucial showdown against South Africa, a match that comes in the aftermath of a disheartening defeat to India in their World Cup opener. The Aussies were dealt a harsh reality check by the host nation as they suffered a comprehensive six-wicket loss. Their upcoming opponents, South Africa, couldn't be more contrasting in their mood.

The Australian camp is not only concerned about the defeat itself but also the manner in which they succumbed. Their batting display was notably lacking in aggression; the lack of depth in their batting lineup was a major factor that contributed to their struggles against India's quality spin attack on a sluggish Chepauk wicket. It was evident that the absence of a second frontline spinner became a significant issue, as Adam Zampa was the solitary option due to Glenn Maxwell's part-time role.

The South African team, on the other hand, boasts a formidable trio of centurions in Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram, who decimated Sri Lanka in their opening match. If the pitch favors spin, which could pose a significant challenge for Australia given their recent difficulties against slow bowlers, South Africa might consider including wrist spinner Tabraiz Shamsi.

AUS vs SA Probable Playing XI

Australia (AUS): David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steven Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Alex Carey, Marcus Stoinis, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood

South Africa (SA): Quinton de Kock (wk), Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi