Australia give Steve Smith more time to prove fitness for Cape Town Test

Australia will give Steve Smith additional time to prove his fitness ahead of the third and final Test against South Africa at Newlands. Smith suffered a neck injury during the second Test and is aiming to return for the series decider. Captain Pat Cummins confirmed the approach on Monday.

Nic Maddinson and Sam Harper have been released from the squad ahead of the Cape Town match. Marnus Labuschagne is expected to retain his place in the batting order.

Cameron Green is likely to bat in the middle order, which would see Matt Renshaw open alongside Travis Head. South Africa can overtake Australia at the top of the Test rankings with a series victory.