Jansen Ready To Lead Proteas Attack Against Australia In Absence Of Rabada And Ngidi

Marco Jansen believes the Proteas will have to match Australia’s intensity and mentality when the two sides meet in the upcoming ODI series, while admitting he is relishing the opportunity to take on greater responsibility within South Africa’s bowling attack.

The absence of experienced pacemen Lungi Ngidi and Kagiso Rabada leaves a significant void in the Proteas squad, but Jansen sees it as an opportunity to step up and lead from the front.

“Those two not being a part of the squad is a bit of a loss,” Jansen said.

“They’re two world-class bowlers, especially in South African conditions. They know how to get the most out of the ball on a particular day.”

With Ngidi and Rabada unavailable, Jansen acknowledged that he may have to assume a leadership role within the attack.

“For me personally, it sort of feels like I’m going to have to take that leadership role and have to lead from the front,” he said.

“It’s probably going to be my first time taking up such a role, so I’m quite excited about that, and I’m looking forward to seeing what I can also do when put in such a role.”

Jansen is also aware of the challenge Australia will present, particularly given the experience and confidence within their squad.

“They’re a squad full of very experienced guys who play around the world in various leagues, so they know how they want to play. They know their brand or their style of playing,” he said.

Jansen believes South Africa cannot afford to be intimidated by Australia’s approach.

“To counter, we need to sort of match their intensity or match their mentality and their body language,” he said.

“If you back down or if you shy away, it’s very easy for them to get on top of you and get further ahead in the game.”

However, the all-rounder stressed that mental preparation can only take a team so far, with execution ultimately determining the outcome.

“You can have a certain mental approach or body language or whatever the case may be, but at the end of the day, it comes down to the skills on the day and who executes whatever they want to do the best.”

The series could also provide a special moment for the Jansen brothers, with Marco potentially lining up alongside Duan Jansen in the Proteas XI for the first time.

Should Duan get the opportunity in the third ODI in Potchefstroom, it would carry added significance given their connection to the city.

“We grew up near Potch and went to high school in Potchefstroom, so if it pans out like that, it’ll be awesome,” Jansen said.

“We’re just going to take it as it comes. If that opportunity presents itself, you better believe that we’re definitely going to make the most of it and enjoy it as much as we can.”

For Marco, the upcoming series therefore represents more than just another contest against Australia. It is also an opportunity to establish himself as one of the senior figures in a changing Proteas attack.