Cricketing great and ICC Hall of Famer Ricky Ponting has hailed South African fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen as the most formidable pace duo in the world.
His bold assertion came after the pair delivered a sensational performance on the opening day of the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s, dismantling the Australian batting lineup with precision and power.
Rabada led the charge with his 17th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, earning another spot on the prestigious Lord’s Honours Board.
Jansen provided excellent support from the other end, and together, the duo claimed eight Australian wickets to put South Africa firmly in control.
Their display was a masterclass in fast bowling, exploiting the famous slope and variable bounce of Lord’s with devastating effect.
Speaking to ICC Digital, Ponting praised their complementary styles. “There’s no doubt Rabada and Jansen are the most dangerous pair in the game right now,” Ponting remarked. “Rabada brings sheer pace and consistency, while Jansen, with his left-arm angle and bounce, adds another dimension. Their chemistry and understanding of conditions make them almost unplayable at times.”
Ponting compared Rabada’s dominance at Lord’s to that of legendary pacer Glenn McGrath, noting the South African’s uncanny ability to rise to big occasions. “Rabada seems to love the big stage. This is his second five-for in a row in a first innings at Lord’s – a venue where the very best etch their names in history.”
Despite Australia’s disappointing start, Ponting offered some hope. He believes the pitch may ease out and offer better batting conditions in the second innings. “Australia must seize that opportunity. The match isn’t over yet. A solid second innings could bring them back into contention,” he added.
As the Final progresses, all eyes will remain on Rabada and Jansen, whose explosive bowling has set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling contest. With the world watching, South Africa’s lethal pace duo has underlined their status as the gold standard in Test cricket.