Ricky Ponting Praises Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen's Dominance

In a bold endorsement, Ricky Ponting, the ICC Hall of Famer, has hailed South African fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen as one of the most formidable bowling duos in contemporary cricket. This commendation came after the pair showcased a remarkable performance during the ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia at Lord’s on June 12, 2025. Rabada and Jansen combined to dismantle the Australian batting lineup, claiming eight wickets and putting their team in a commanding position.

Rabada, in particular, excelled, achieving his 17th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, a feat that has now solidified his name on the prestigious Honours Board at Lord’s. His performance was reminiscent of former Australian star Glenn McGrath, who also thrived at the iconic venue. "I don’t think there’s any doubt about that," Ponting stated when asked if Rabada and Jansen were the most effective bowling partnership in the world. "They contrast each other really well with the left-arm and right-arm... they have worked really well together now for a few years."

Historically, the relationship between bowlers with contrasting styles can significantly impact a team's performance. According to Dr. Emily Thompson, a cricket analyst at the University of Cape Town, complementary bowling skills are essential in setting up a successful bowling attack. "When you have bowlers that can offer different angles and paces, it can confuse and unsettle batsmen, leading to mistakes."

Rabada’s notable performance comes after a period of off-field challenges, highlighting his resilience and leadership qualities. Ponting emphasized that big players must rise to the occasion in high-stakes matches, stating, "These big games are all about your big-name players. Your star players have to stand up... that’s what quality leaders do."

In response to South Africa’s bowling dominance, Australia’s batting lineup, led by captain Pat Cummins, faces pressure to perform in their second innings. Ponting advised the Australian batters to capitalize on favorable batting conditions expected in their upcoming innings, emphasizing the necessity for a strategic approach against the South African attack.

As the match progresses, the dynamics between the two teams will be pivotal. Rabada and Jansen’s ongoing partnership will be critical for South Africa as they seek to secure a historic victory. Conversely, Australia must regroup and adjust to counteract the impressive South African bowling duo, which has been a hallmark of their strategy in recent years.

The implications of this match extend beyond the immediate outcome. With the ICC World Test Championship on the line, both teams are vying for cricketing prestige, making each performance crucial. This match not only tests individual capabilities but also the effectiveness of team strategies in a highly competitive environment.

Looking ahead, cricket analysts will be keenly observing the development of Rabada and Jansen’s careers, particularly in high-pressure situations. Their ability to maintain consistency will be essential for South Africa as they navigate upcoming international competitions. The performance of leaders like Rabada can inspire a new generation of cricketers, emphasizing the importance of resilience and teamwork in achieving success on the world stage.