In the opening Test of the series against Sri Lanka, Marco Jansen etched his name in cricketing history as South Africa bowled out their opponents for a mere 42 runs. The left-arm pacer delivered a sensational spell, claiming seven wickets for just 13 runs in only 6.5 overs. This incredible feat had not been achieved since 1904, making it a moment to remember in the sport’s history.
On the second day of the match at Kingsmead Stadium in Durban, Jansen’s brilliance shone as he single-handedly dismantled the Sri Lankan batting order. South Africa, having been bowled out for a modest 191 in their first innings, faced immense pressure. However, Jansen’s remarkable performance turned the tide. Sri Lanka collapsed for their lowest score in Test cricket history, finishing with just 42 runs in 13.5 overs—the second shortest innings ever recorded by any team worldwide.
| Key Highlights |
|---|
| Marco Jansen made history against Sri Lanka |
| Jansen took seven wickets |
| South Africa (64, 191) were bowled out for 191 |
Marcon Jansen Creates History
Jansen’s spell was nothing short of extraordinary. In 6.5 overs, he dismissed Pathum Nissanka, Angelo Matthews, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, Prabath Jayasuriya, Vishwa Fernando, and Asitha Fernando, equaling the world record for the fastest seven-wicket haul. He became the first bowler in 120 years to take seven wickets in less than seven overs. The only other player to achieve this was Australia’s Hugh Trumble, who took seven wickets for 28 runs in 6.5 overs against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in 1904.
Despite South Africa’s modest first-innings total, Temba Bavuma’s resilient knock of 70 ensured they had a fighting chance. The team secured a 149-run lead, bolstered by Jansen’s extraordinary bowling display.
The match began with Sri Lanka winning the toss and opting to bowl first, but the first day saw limited play due to interruptions. However, it was Jansen’s brilliance on the second day that defined the contest and etched his name into the annals of cricketing glory.
| Player | Spell | Overs | Balls Bowled | Match | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marco Jansen | 7/13 | 6.5 | 41 | South Africa vs Sri Lanka | 2024 |
| Hugh Trumble | 7/28 | 6.5 | 41 | Australia vs England | 1904 |
| Monty Noble | 7/17 | 7.4 | 56 | Australia vs England | 192 |
