Marco Jansen's five-wicket haul on the third day of the first Test against Pakistan demonstrated his exceptional bowling prowess, changing the momentum of the match at Supersport Park, Centurion.
On December 28, 2024, Jansen's remarkable performance did not just halt Pakistan's recovery efforts, but it also brought to light the fragile state of their batting lineup. By claiming five wickets for 42 runs, he firmly established South Africa's dominance, ensuring they were poised to take control of the match as Pakistan stumbled to 212 all out.
During the opening stages of Day 3, Pakistan appeared to be recovering well, thanks to Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel, who formed a solid partnership. Azam recorded his first Test fifty since the previous two years, showcasing glimpses of his past brilliance. Yet, his dismissal after securing 50 runs marked the beginning of Pakistan's problems.
Babar’s ill-timed shot led to his demise; after slashing at a witless delivery from Jansen, he was caught by Corbin Bosch on the boundary. "You cannot keep Corbin Bosch out of the game!" commentators quipped, reflecting the irony and disappointment surrounding Babar’s exit. Just moments later, Mohammad Rizwan fell cheaply for three runs, succumbing to another wise delivery from Jansen, who had found his rhythm.
Jansen's progression to his five-for came when he enticed Agha Salman to chase one outside off-stump, resulting in yet another catch for the agile Bosch. With this wicket, Jansen not only cemented his status as a premier fast bowler but also heightened the stakes for the Pakistani side.
Pakistan, who began the day trailing by only two runs, experienced what could only be described as batting chaos. They lost five wickets for just 56 runs within 14 overs, putting them on the back foot with only 122 runs lead and merely two wickets remaining at tea.
Through rain delays and uncomfortable pitches, Jansen maintained his composure, adapting his strategy to exploit the weaknesses evident in Pakistan's batting lineup. His performance served as both redemption and reassurance for Kapten Temba Bavuma and the entire South African camp. "Jansen completed his third career five-wicket haul when he had Salman Agha caught behind," noted reporters, illustrating the extent of his influence as Pakistan struggled to find their footing.
Despite the setbacks faced by star batsman Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel emerged as one of the solitary bright spots for Pakistan. His efforts of 66 runs stood out amid the chaos, showcasing resilience against Jansen and other South African bowlers. Yet, he too faced hardship when partners fell around him, proving to be an uphill battle against the determined bowling attack.
The South African bowlers, invigorated by Jansen's performance, closed the day with the tide turned dramatically against the tourists. The possibility of victory loomed large, as South Africa needed merely two wickets to start their chase after Pakistan’s lineup collapsed.
The match not only highlights Jansen's ability to bounce back after being stripped of his new ball duties earlier but also reignites the competition between these two cricketing nations, both vying for their places on the world stage with the upcoming World Test Championship final at stake.
Looking forward, as South Africa prepares to capitalize on their lead, Pakistan is tasked with regrouping and determining how to stem the tide. The follow-up Test at Newlands on January 3, 2025, looms large for both sides, as they navigate the fallout from the events at Centurion.
