Can Marco Jansen Become the Best All-Rounder in Test Cricket?

Synopsis
As Marco Jansen impresses with his strong performance in the World Test Championship Final, Ricky Ponting believes he is on the brink of becoming one of the world's best all-rounders in Test cricket. Discover how this young talent is poised for greatness in the sport.
Key Takeaways
- Marco Jansen shows immense potential as an all-rounder.
- His partnership with Kagiso Rabada is pivotal for South Africa.
- Jansen's competitive nature makes him stand out.
- Ricky Ponting expects Jansen to excel further in the coming years.
- Injury did not hinder Jansen's performance in crucial moments.
London, June 13 (NationPress) Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has praised South Africa's towering pacer Marco Jansen for his remarkable competitive spirit and believes he is set to become one of the finest all-rounders in Test cricket globally in the upcoming years.
Jansen made a significant impression for the Proteas by teaming up with Kagiso Rabada to create a formidable fast-bowling duo that dismantled Australia’s batting lineup on the first day of the World Test Championship Final.
While Rabada earned accolades with a stunning five-wicket haul at Lord’s, Jansen's performance was equally commendable, concluding with figures of 3 for 49 in 14 overs, taking crucial wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head.
"He's quite reserved and calm. Nothing seems to faze him much. Whether he has a stellar day or a less favorable one, he maintains his composure," Ponting stated to ICC Digital following the first day of the WTC Final.
A finger injury while fielding on day two could have limited his performance; however, his swift return to bowling showcased his resilience as he dismissed Labuschagne for 22.
"Internally, whether in his thought process about the game or in the dressing room, you can sense an inherent competitive nature within him. Once he steps onto the field, it’s a whole new ball game," remarked Ponting, who coached Jansen at Punjab Kings during IPL 2025.
Ponting anticipates that Jansen will elevate his performance further in the next World Test Championship cycle, asserting there are no limits to his potential as a versatile player.
"I believe he is going to be one of the top all-rounders in Test cricket worldwide in the next few years. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with him, and I see him as an extraordinary talent who is still early in his international journey," Ponting added.