The three-match T20I series between Australia and South Africa will begin on August 30. All-rounder Mitchell Marsh will lead Australia's T20 team on their tour of South Africa. This makes him a favorite for the job permanently before the T20 World Cup next year.

"Mitch has long been a senior player within the white-ball structure, with this an opportunity for him to add to his leadership skills at international level. We look forward to him taking that step in South Africa,” national selector George Bailey said.

The series will be held from August 30 to September 3 in Durban, South Africa. Keeping in mind the ODI World Cup, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Cameron Green, and David Warner are not in the team. However, they are all in the ODI series team. Ashton Agar will miss the series due to a cuff injury.

There are several new faces in the 14-member squad. Western Australia all-rounder Aaron Hardie has got the first opportunity. South Australia spinner Spencer Johnson and Victoria's Matt Short have been also included. Mitchell Marsh will lead the national team for the first time after the U19 team. Marsh takes over the job that Aaron Finch left when he quit playing for his country earlier this year. However, his job is only for the three matches in South Africa for now.

"Aaron, Spencer and Matt have been outstanding in the BBL and identified as potential national players of the future. This tour is a great opportunity for all three to demonstrate those skills in a national team environment,” Bailey added.

"Aaron has impressed in recent outings for Australia A as well as for the Scorchers while Matt has blossomed with extra responsibility at the top of the order for the Strikers.

"Spencer's left-arm pace and bounce was highly effective in his first season for the Heat. This trip will be a fantastic experience for all three and the chance to play their first games for their country."

However, Steve Smith will be seen in the opening as another surprise. Cricket Australia (CA) has decided to open with Smith now that Aaron Finch has retired.

The three-match T20 series between South Africa and Australia will be held on August 30, September 1 and September 3 respectively. All matches will be held in Durban.

Australia squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Sean Abbott, Jason Behrendorff, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Short, Steven Smith, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.