Away series in Bangladesh, South Africa, and India: Australia to face tough challenges in search of their third consecutive WTC final
As Australia aims for its third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) Final, led by Pat Cummins they will have face South Africa and India away from home within next 12 months.
Last Updated: 06.42 PM, Mar 22, 2026
As Australia looks to secure a spot in their third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) Final, the road ahead for the Pat Cummins-led side is paved with high-stakes challenges and historic milestones. Currently sitting at the top of the WTC points table with a staggering 87.50% PCT, the 2023 World Test Champions are in a prime position to reach the final, but the next 12 months will test their squad strength across every imaginable condition.
The Aussies are currently at the top
Australia’s journey in the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle has been clinical. After a 3-0 sweep of the West Indies, they backed it up with a dominant 4-1 Ashes victory at home against arch-rival England. With seven wins from eight matches so far in this cycle, they are at the top of the points table.
Australia's upcoming schedule:
1. The subcontinent Test (August 2026)
Australia’s next assignment will take them to Bangladesh for a two-Test series. Known for spinning tracks, Bangladesh always produces tough challenges for the overseas team. This "away" trip will be a crucial test for the Australian batters and spinners as they look to continue their winning momentum in tricky spinning conditions.
Read also: 'If I was KKR...,' Ravi Ashwin suggests what KKR need to do with Rinku Singh's batting order in IPL 2026.
2. Three Tests in South Africa (October 2026)
In what promises to be the most dynamic series of the year, Australia will head to South Africa for three Tests. This is a direct rematch of last year's WTC Final at Lord’s, where the Proteas famously demolished Australia to clinch the mace for the first time.
Australia will be chasing a reprieve on South African soil.
3. The New Zealand series (Late 2026 – 2027)
After facing South Africa away from home, Australia will return home to host New Zealand in a four-Test series.
With the WTC cycle entering its final stages, these points at home will be non-negotiable for Pat Cummins and his men.
4. 5 Tests vs India (Jan – March 2027)
The final hurdle for the Australian team will be the biggest of them all. They will head to India for a five-match series.
Having recently finished a decade-long drought by conquering India 3-1 at home, Australia will face the ultimate challenge by trying to win a series in India to close out their WTC cycle.