Ryan Rickelton comes into the side to replace the injured Rassie van der Dussen.

The all-rounder, Wiaan Mulder, has been named in the team for the first time in the series, while Khaya Zondo will also play for the first time.

The tall left-arm seamer, Marco Jansen, is back in the attack.

The batter Aidan Markram and spinner, Simon Harmer, were dropped, while the seamer Lungi Ngidi is carrying a niggle.

Proteas captain, Dean Elgar, said that now is time for his team to show character.

“Showing a lot of character is something that I really like about cricket players,” said the South African opening batter.

“Talent and skill is one thing, but if you got that different dimension with regards to character and ability is one thing that I look for.

“Hopefully those trends can continue in this Test. We didn't have the greatest second Tests, but in saying that - it's still one-all and coming to the Oval, I'm sure that we would have taken that coming into the series.”

The start of play was delayed to due rain that started just after the toss.

The series is currently deadlocked at one win a piece.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport