Marco Jansen has made history as the first South African cricketer to achieve a remarkable milestone in a Test match against India. This significant event occurred during the Test in Guwahati, held from November 23 to 25, 2025.
Jansen’s Impressive Performance
On November 23, 2025, Jansen scored an impressive 93 runs off 91 balls for the South African team, captained by Temba Bavuma. The following day, he demonstrated his bowling prowess by taking six wickets for only 48 runs in 19.5 overs during India’s first innings.
Key Highlights of Jansen’s Achievement
- First South African to score a halfcentury and take a sixwicket haul in the same Test match against India.
- Scored 93 runs in the first innings, contributing significantly to his team’s total.
- Bowled brilliantly to dismiss six Indian players, starting with Dhruv Jurel.
- His wickets included notable players such as Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja.
Bowling Milestones
Jansen’s performance marks a significant achievement for leftarm pacers in Test cricket in India. His figures of 6/48 place him among the best bowling performances by South African bowlers in India.
Top Bowling Figures by South African Pacers in India
| Bowler | Figures | Match Location | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lance Klusener | 8/64 | Kolkata | 1996 |
| Dale Steyn | 7/51 | Nagpur | 2010 |
| Marco Jansen | 6/48 | Guwahati | 2025 |
| Dale Steyn | 5/23 | Ahmedabad | 2008 |
| Kyle Abbott | 5/40 | Delhi | 2015 |
Before Marco Jansen, only one South African bowler had scored a halfcentury and taken a fivewicket haul in a Test match in India. Nicky Boje achieved this milestone in March 2000 during a match in Bengaluru.
Conclusion
Jansen’s remarkable performance in Guwahati not only cements his place in South African cricket history but also showcases his potential as a leading cricketer on the international stage. His achievements provide inspiration for budding cricketers in South Africa and around the world.