Marco Jansen’s Explosive ODI Batting Stuns India in High-Scoring Thriller

Marco Jansen delivered a breathtaking batting performance for South Africa in the first ODI against India. His blistering 70 runs from just 39 balls nearly stole victory from the hosts in Ranchi. The match took place on November 30, 2025, and will be remembered for its dramatic swings.

South Africa’s Chase and Jansen’s Rescue Act

South Africa’s chase of 350 began disastrously. Their top order collapsed to 11 for 3 within the first five overs. The situation looked dire when they fell to 130 for 5.

Jansen then partnered with Matthew Breetzke in a stunning counter-attack. Their 97-run stand for the sixth wicket came off only 69 deliveries. This partnership single-handedly revived the Proteas’ hopes of an unlikely win.

The Anatomy of a Blazing Innings

Jansen’s assault was both brutal and calculated. He reached his half-century in a mere 26 balls. His innings included eight fours and three massive sixes.

According to Reuters, his clean striking took advantage of the evening dew. Indian bowlers struggled to contain him as he found gaps with ease. This was his second ODI fifty, remarkably both scored on Indian soil.

His aggressive intent put immense pressure on the Indian bowling attack. The required run rate, which once seemed insurmountable, suddenly became achievable. The momentum had firmly shifted in South Africa’s favor.

The Turning Point and India’s Eventual Victory

The match’s crucial moment came from Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He dismissed both set batters, Jansen and Breetzke, in one decisive over. This double breakthrough halted South Africa’s charge completely.

Despite a late flourish from Corbin Bosch, South Africa fell short by 17 runs. India’s total of 349, built on Virat Kohli’s 52nd ODI century of 135 runs, proved just enough. The match showcased a perfect blend of individual brilliance and team resilience.

Jansen’s Growing All-Round Stature Against India

This innings continues Jansen’s impressive record against India. He previously scored 93 runs in a Test match in Guwahati. His all-round contributions are becoming a consistent theme in Indo-South Africa contests.

His ability to change a game with both bat and ball makes him a rare asset. Teams now must plan specifically for his lower-order hitting. He is rapidly becoming one of cricket’s most feared all-rounders.

Marco Jansen’s explosive ODI batting announced his arrival as a genuine all-round threat in white-ball cricket. While South Africa lost the match, his innings proved that no target is safe when he is at the crease. His performance sets an exciting tone for the remainder of the series.

Info at your fingertips

How fast did Marco Jansen score his fifty?

Jansen reached his half-century in just 26 balls. This made it one of the fastest fifties by a South African in ODI cricket. His innings was a display of pure power hitting.

What was the result of the match?

India won the first ODI by 17 runs. They defended a total of 349 runs. Virat Kohli was named Player of the Match for his century.

Who took the crucial wickets of Jansen and Breetzke?

Indian left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav dismissed both batsmen. He removed them in the same over during the critical phase of the chase. This over was the definitive turning point of the game.

Has Jansen performed well against India before?

Yes, he has a strong record against India. He scored a vital 93 in a Test match in Guwahati prior to this series. His all-round skills consistently trouble the Indian team.