Cricket legend Ricky Ponting has lauded Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen as one of the most formidable fast bowling duos in the world. His comments follow their dominant performance on the opening day of the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord's.
Rabada and Jansen Dominate Aussies
The South African quicks proved too much for the Australian batsmen, combining to take eight crucial wickets in the Ultimate Test. Rabada, in particular, was exceptional, claiming his 17th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, etching his name once again on the Honours Board at the iconic London ground.
Ponting, speaking to ICC Digital before Australia's fightback, didn't hesitate when asked if Rabada and Jansen were the most formidable duo globally. "I don't think there's any doubt about that," he asserted, highlighting their complementary bowling styles.
Complementary Bowling Styles Key
"I think that's sort of been building up over the last couple of years. They contrast each other really well with the left-arm and right-arm," Ponting explained. "Marco is obviously getting a bit steeper bounce than what Rabada gets. When you're talking about bowling partnerships or bowling combinations, you need guys that complement each other well."
He further elaborated on the importance of contrasting styles. "It's no good having two guys that are exactly the same because then it feels like you've got the same stuff coming at you from both ends...those two have worked really well together now for a few years."
Looking Ahead for the Proteas
Rabada's five-wicket haul put South Africa in a strong position early in the match. Their performance shows how crucial a dynamic opening bowling partnership can be in Test cricket. All eyes will be on Rabada and Jansen to see if they can maintain their dominance throughout the rest of the series.