Marco Jansen best cricketer in the world: Dale Steyn after Gqeberha Test heroics

Dale Steyn has praised Marc Jansen after the South African all-rounder produced a match-defining performance against Australia in the second Test at Gqeberha. Jansen played a key role with the bat, sharing a valuable partnership with captain Temba Bavuma before playing with the ball as the Proteas took control of the match.

South Africa vs Australia 2nd Test Day 4: Update | Scorecard

Jansen scored 85 runs to help South Africa recover from a precarious position and 425 for nine declared. Bavuma led the recovery with a brilliant 179 while Simon Harmer added 82. Jansen then took five wickets as Australia were bowled out for just 99, allowing South Africa to force a follow-on and put the visitors under huge pressure.

Steyn, one of South Africa’s greatest fast bowlers, was impressed with Jansen’s all-round contribution and made his feelings clear on social media.

“Marco Jansen is the best cricketer in the world right now,” Steyn wrote.

JANSEN SHINES WITH BAT AND BALL

Jansen’s contribution with the bat proved vital after South Africa struggled to 110 for six. The left-hander joined Bavum and helped push the pace with an aggressive 85 off 100 deliveries, including nine fours and three sixes. Their stand of 132 runs for the seventh wicket was a record partnership for South Africa at St George’s Park, surpassing the 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 post 425 for nine.

Jansen then asserted himself even more with the ball. His five-wicket haul dismantled Australia’s batting line-up, with the visitors managing just 99 runs in their first innings. The collapse gave South Africa a commanding advantage and forced Bavuma to force the follow-on, leaving Australia facing an uphill battle to save the Test.

Jansen finished with figures of 5 for 33 from 11 overs as he dismissed Travis Head, Scott Boland, Matt Renshaw, Alex Carey and Beau Webster.

Australia have never won a Test after being asked to resume, with 29 defeats and 11 draws in 40 such matches. Jansen’s all-round performance put him firmly in contention for the man of the match award alongside Bavuma, whose magnificent century anchored South Africa’s recovery.

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