Former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn has hailed all-rounder Marco Jansen as “the best cricketer in the world” following his outstanding performance against Australia in the second Test at Gqeberha.
Jansen made a significant impact with both bat and ball, helping South Africa recover from a difficult position before dismantling Australia’s batting line-up. His contribution gave the hosts a commanding advantage and strengthened his case for the Player of the Match award.
Steyn expressed his admiration for Jansen on social media, praising the all-rounder’s influence on the contest. Jansen scored 85 runs after South Africa had slipped to 110 for six, joining captain Temba Bavuma to revive the innings. The left-hander faced 100 deliveries and struck nine fours and three sixes, combining an aggressive approach with a crucial partnership that shifted the momentum in South Africa’s favour.
Jansen and Bavuma added 132 runs for the seventh wicket, setting a record partnership for South Africa at St George’s Park that surpassed a mark dating back to 1896. Bavuma led the recovery with a superb 179, providing stability while Jansen attacked the Australian bowlers. After Jansen was dismissed, Bavuma continued the innings alongside Simon Harmer, who contributed 82 runs. South Africa eventually declared at 425 for nine, recovering strongly from their early batting collapse.
Jansen followed his batting contribution with an equally impressive display with the ball. He claimed five wickets for 33 runs in 11 overs as Australia were dismissed for just 99 in their first innings. His victims included Travis Head, Scott Boland, Matt Renshaw, Alex Carey and Beau Webster. The collapse left Australia in a difficult position and allowed South Africa to enforce the follow-on, putting the visitors under considerable pressure in the Test.
Australia’s batting failure handed South Africa a substantial advantage, with the home side looking to capitalise on its dominant position. The visitors faced the challenge of batting again after being bowled out for fewer than 100 runs, while Jansen’s performance highlighted his ability to influence a match across both disciplines. His five-wicket haul complemented his important contribution with the bat, making him one of the central figures in the contest.
Jansen’s performance also brought attention to Australia’s record after being forced to follow on. According to the report, Australia had never won a Test in that situation, recording 29 defeats and 11 draws across 40 such matches. With Jansen delivering a decisive all-round display and Bavuma anchoring South Africa’s recovery, both players emerged as contenders for the Player of the Match award as the hosts sought to complete a commanding performance in Gqeberha.