Proteas vs Bangladesh Test Series 2026: Squads, Fixtures and How to Watch

Test Match Fixtures and Venues

The highly anticipated series begins at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg from 15 to 19 November. The action then shifts to SuperSport Park in Centurion for the second Test, scheduled from 23 to 27 November. These matches are expected to draw enthusiastic crowds as South Africa seeks to strengthen its championship campaign on home soil.

Where to Watch the Proteas vs Bangladesh Test Series

Fans eager not to miss a single delivery can catch both Test matches live. DStv will broadcast the games on the SuperSport Cricket channel (212), ensuring supporters across South Africa and beyond can follow the series as events unfold.

South Africa’s Squad: A Pace-Heavy Strategy

Expectations are high as coach Shukri Conrad prepares a side tailored to exploit home conditions. He highlighted the significance of pace and bounce typical of Highveld pitches, indicating a strong focus on seam bowlers for this series. The squad reflects this tactical emphasis, with several fast bowlers included alongside key spin options.

Proteas Test Squad:

• Temba Bavuma (captain)
• Marques Ackerman
• Matthew Breetzke
• Corbin Bosch
• Tony de Zorzi
• Simon Harmer
• Zubayr Hamza
• Marco Jansen
• Keshav Maharaj
• Aiden Markram
• Wiaan Mulder
• Anrich Nortje
• Dane Paterson
• Kagiso Rabada
• Ryan Rickelton

Anrich Nortje makes a return after recovering from a groin injury, supported by fellow pacemen Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and Wiaan Mulder. The spin line-up remains strong with Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj. Notable inclusions are Tony de Zorzi, back from a hamstring issue, and Zubayr Hamza, recalled for his first Test appearance since 2024.

Bangladesh Squad: Key Players and Recent Form

The Bangladesh squad, named on 9 November, comes off a mixed Test series against the West Indies. The Tigers lost one Test yet salvaged a draw in the other, showcasing both weaknesses and potential heading into the South African tour. Bangladesh will be aiming to spring a surprise and build on their limited recent success.

Bangladesh Test Squad:

• Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain)
• Khaled Ahmed
• Taskin Ahmed
• Jaker Ali
• Litton Das
• Tanzid Hasan
• Mominul Haque
• Ebadot Hossain
• Towhid Hridoy
• Mahfijul Islam
• Shoriful Islam
• Taijul Islam
• Hasan Mahmud
• Mehidy Hasan Miraz
• Mushfiqur Rahim
• Naim Sheikh

Hasan Mahmud was Bangladesh’s top wicket-taker against the West Indies, claiming eight dismissals. With the bat, Towhid Hridoy led the scoring for Bangladesh, amassing 366 runs in their two-Test series. These standout performances put both players in the spotlight as potential game-changers for the visitors in the South African conditions.

World Test Championship Context

South Africa currently sits second behind New Zealand in the World Test Championship standings after a 2-1 win over Australia. Success in this series would bolster the Proteas’ title hopes and extend their momentum. Bangladesh, likewise, have opportunities to close the gap on India, especially after registering a significant win against Australia in August.

Beyond the Test matches, the outcome will also shape both teams’ approach as they transition into the limited-overs contests coming up in December.

Upcoming One-Day and T20 Internationals

This Test series sets the stage for a busy schedule between the two nations. December will feature three One-Day Internationals at:

• 1 December – Buffalo Park, East London
• 4 December – St George’s Park, Gqeberha
• 7 December – Newlands Stadium, Cape Town

These are followed by three T20 Internationals, with fixtures planned for:

• 10 December – Diamond Oval, Kimberley
• 12 December – Willowmoore Park, Benoni
• 13 December – SuperSport Park, Centurion

Fixture dates are subject to change and fans should check local listings for updates.

What’s at Stake and Series Significance

Victory in this series is vital for both sides’ ambitions. For South Africa, a strong showing could solidify their place near the top of the World Test Championship. For Bangladesh, positive results offer a path to rise in the standings and demonstrate resilience after their recent mixed results against the West Indies.

With both rosters featuring a mix of pace options and experienced all-rounders, fans can anticipate competitive cricket across varied conditions. The spotlight will be on the players who impressed in recent matches, but both squads contain fresh faces aiming to make their mark on the international stage.

Looking Ahead

As anticipation builds, the cricketing world turns to Johannesburg and Centurion for two crucial Tests that promise high-stakes drama and sporting excellence.