Marco Jansen the best cricketer in the world: Dale Steyn after Gqeberha Test heroics
Dale Steyn has heaped praise on Marco Jansen after the South African all-rounder delivered a match-defining performance against Australia in the second Test at Gqeberha. Jansen played a crucial role with the bat, sharing a valuable partnership with captain Temba Bavuma before starring with the ball as the Proteas took control of the contest.
South Africa vs Australia, 2nd Test Day 4: Updates | Scorecard
Jansen scored 85 runs to help South Africa recover from a precarious position and post 425 for nine declared. Bavuma led the recovery with a magnificent 179, while Simon Harmer added 82. Jansen then claimed a five-wicket haul as Australia were bowled out for just 99, allowing South Africa to enforce the follow-on and put the visitors under immense pressure.
Steyn, one of South Africa’s greatest fast bowlers, was impressed by Jansen’s all-round contribution and made his feelings clear on social media.
“Marco Jansen is currently the best cricketer in the world,” Steyn wrote.
JANSEN SHINES WITH BAT AND BALL
Jansen’s contribution with the bat proved vital after South Africa found themselves struggling at 110 for six. The left-hander joined Bavuma and helped shift the momentum with an aggressive knock of 85 off 100 deliveries, including nine fours and three sixes. Their 132-run stand for the seventh wicket was a record partnership for South Africa at St George’s Park, surpassing a mark that had stood since 1896.
Bavuma’s composure complemented Jansen’s attacking approach as the pair rescued the hosts from a difficult position. After Jansen departed, Bavuma continued to build the innings alongside Harmer, whose 82 helped South Africa declare at 425 for nine.
Jansen then made an even bigger impact with the ball. His five-wicket haul dismantled Australia’s batting line-up, with the visitors managing only 99 runs in their first innings. The collapse gave South Africa a commanding advantage and prompted Bavuma to enforce the follow-on, leaving Australia facing an uphill battle to save the Test.
Jansen finished with figures of 5 for 33 from 11 overs, dismissing Travis Head, Scott Boland, Matt Renshaw, Alex Carey and Beau Webster.
Australia have never won a Test after being asked to follow on, with 29 defeats and 11 draws in 40 such matches. Jansen’s all-round performance has put him firmly in contention for the Player of the Match award, alongside Bavuma, whose magnificent century anchored South Africa’s recovery.
– Ends
