Marco Jansen has shifted gears in Ranchi, launching a fierce counterattack against India’s bowling attack during the 26th over of South Africa’s chase. With the required run rate climbing, the tall left-hander decided to break free — and Prasidh Krishna faced the brunt of it.
The over began quietly, but Jansen exploded with back-to-back sixes on deliveries 25.4 and 25.5. The first came as he cleared his front leg and powered a full ball over deep mid-wicket with ease. The next was even cleaner — a flat loft straight over long-on, beating Harshit Rana in the deep.
Prasidh leaked 15 runs in the over, allowing South Africa to claw some momentum back as they continue their pursuit of 349.
Jansen, who had struggled earlier, is now playing fearlessly, using his long reach and power to put pressure back on India. His aggression has also eased the burden on Matthew Breetzke at the other end, although the required rate remains steep.
South Africa still need a huge push from here, but Jansen’s sudden burst has kept the contest alive.
