Africa-Press – South-Africa. Eye-catching feats might be nice and even quell the increasing frustration of the local cricketing public to an extent, but Marco Jansen believes the Proteas could end their tour of Australia on a positive note by simply showcasing some attitude.
The beanpole 22-year-old can’t be accused of underperforming Down Under over the past few weeks, claiming 3/32 in the first Test at the Gabba before crafting a career-best 59 batting at No 7 and bowling far better than his figures suggested at the MCG.
If anything, Jansen’s teammates can take a leaf out of his book when the third and final Test in Sydney commences on Wednesday.
For the left-arm quick, who’s made a storming start to his career in the pinnacle format of the game, Test matches are won or lost through less fashionable means, like gritting through a tough session with the bat or persevering despite an unrewarding spell.
“I know everyone goes out there to give their best, but at the end of the day it’s about trying to figure out what we can do as a team or individuals to really influence the game in a defining way,” said Jansen.
“Whether it’s taking five blows to the body while batting or bowling 7 or 8 overs on the trot, it’s those things that matter. It’s about recognising the moment and doing whatever you can within your power to influence or help the team.
“You can say all these nice things about 150-plus partnerships or guys scoring double centuries, but it’s not always a case where a team scores 500 runs and then win the game.
“Test cricket is sometimes like the first Test, where a partnership of 80 wins you the game. My focus is on identifying those type of moments and capitalising on them.”
Introspection has been high on South Africa’s agenda after a chastening fortnight – especially with the local sporting fraternity rightly bemoaning the poor form of the batting order – but Jansen insists the players shouldn’t start doubting their own abilities.
It’s merely about summoning the confidence to execute those skills.
“We always have chats after the game, take a day to really reflect on things individually and then come together and speak about what we can improve on,” said Jansen.
“The chat over the past few days was that everyone is aware of their skill levels, we know we have the individual tools to succeed. It’s not like someone still needs to work on his outswinger or a front foot is going too far across the popping crease, whatever the case may be.
“It’s just about us making that mental shift and making a conscious decision to put up my hand and do whatever it takes to influence the team in a good way or get them over the line.”
The first ball at the SCG will be bowled at 01:30.
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