It's gone way better than expected: Marco Jansen reflects on his debut year


image-lcedzc8bJansen has had a terrific debut season [Source: Associated Press]

Having completed a full year at the international level, following a memorable Test debut against India in late 2021, Marco Jansen has certainly become a key player for the Proteas. 

The tall left-arm pacer has bagged 36 wickets in eight Test matches, at 19.02 and has also shown glimpses of his all-round potential with the bat as well. As a result, Jansen has been nominated for the ICC Emerging Player of the Year 2022.

After a terrific year, especially in the whites, Jansen reflects on his career and how things have panned out for the seamer.

"It didn't start great, my first over in Test cricket went for 14. I haven't really thought about it or reflected but it's gone way better than expected. Couldn't have asked for a better start, I guess," Jansen said ahead of the third Test against Australia in Sydney.

South Africa will be looking to avoid a series whitewash and keep their slim chances of qualifying for WTC final alive. Jansen believes that it's not about the lack of skills that has costed South Africa the series but the ability to get control of the crucial moments in a Test match.

"It's making that mental shift and making a conscious decision to say that I'm going to put my hand put and do whatever it takes to influence the team. Personally I know everyone tries and give their best. It's trying to figure out what we can do as individuals to influence the team in a good way," the seamer added.

South Africa will be looking to make one change in the playing XI with Theunis de Bruyn having returned home for the birth of his child.


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