Not Dale Steyn! Marco Jansen reveals his idol ahead of the semi-final 1 against New Zealand
Marco Jansen’s Transformation: From Flopstar to Superstar at Eden Gardens
Marco Jansen, the talented South African pacer, has had a rollercoaster journey at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. After facing a nightmare performance in 2023, he made a remarkable comeback in 2025, leading his team to a historic victory.
Redemption at Eden Gardens
In an upcoming match against New Zealand at the Eden Gardens, South Africa will rely on Jansen’s bowling prowess to counter the strong opening duo of the opposition during the crucial powerplay phase. This historic ground has witnessed countless memorable moments in cricket history, creating an electrifying atmosphere for players and fans alike.
For Jansen, the Eden Gardens was once a place of despair. In the 2023 World Cup, he struggled heavily against the Indian team, conceding 94 runs without taking a wicket. His poor form continued in the semi-finals against Australia, leading to doubts about his performance on Indian wickets.
Learning from the Best
However, Jansen’s fortunes changed when South Africa returned to the same venue for a Test match against India in 2025. Inspired by Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling, Jansen made a significant revelation about his game. By observing Bumrah’s techniques closely and implementing similar tactics, Jansen found success in the subsequent matches, including a remarkable 6/48 performance against India.
“I looked at Bumrah’s bowling closely and tried to emulate his technique. This helped me generate more revs on the ball and improve my movement off the wicket,” Jansen revealed.
Evolution of Jansen’s Bowling
In the current T20 World Cup, Jansen has introduced a new weapon to his bowling arsenal – the ‘palm ball,’ a variation of the knuckleball. This delivery, which slows down significantly upon landing, has added a deceptive edge to Jansen’s bowling, making him a threat to batsmen.
Explaining the development of his new delivery, Jansen stated, “I always wanted to add a different ball to my repertoire. The palm ball is a combination of the knuckleball and my unique action, making it difficult for batters to pick up.”
Impact at the Eden Gardens
As South Africa prepares to face New Zealand at the Eden Gardens, all eyes will be on Jansen to deliver another stellar performance at the iconic venue. With his newfound confidence and improved skills, Jansen is poised to make a significant impact and continue his transformation from a ‘Flopstar’ to a ‘Superstar’ at the Eden Gardens.
Stay tuned for the upcoming match as Jansen showcases his evolving talents in the world of cricket!
Challenges and Triumphs
Marco Jansen’s journey from being labeled a ‘Flopstar’ to a ‘Superstar’ at Eden Gardens is a testament to the resilience and determination of a young cricketer. The challenges he faced early in his career served as stepping stones for his eventual success, highlighting the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
After his disappointing performance in the 2023 World Cup, Jansen could have easily succumbed to the pressure and criticism. However, he chose to use that experience as motivation to improve and evolve as a player. His ability to learn from setbacks and adapt his game is what sets him apart as a promising talent in the world of cricket.
Strategic Evolution
Jansen’s decision to study and emulate the techniques of established bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah showcases his willingness to learn and grow. By incorporating Bumrah’s strategies into his own bowling style, Jansen was able to enhance his performance and become a more formidable opponent on the field.
Moreover, the introduction of the ‘palm ball’ as a new variation in his bowling repertoire demonstrates Jansen’s commitment to innovation and experimentation. This strategic evolution not only keeps batsmen guessing but also reflects Jansen’s proactive approach to refining his skills and staying ahead of the game.
Resilience and Adaptability
As Jansen gears up to face New Zealand at the iconic Eden Gardens, the spotlight will be on his ability to deliver under pressure once again. His journey from despair to triumph serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience and adaptability in the competitive world of professional cricket.
With each challenge he overcomes and every new skill he acquires, Jansen continues to evolve as a player and solidify his position as a rising star in the cricketing landscape. His transformation at Eden Gardens is not just a personal victory but also an inspiration to aspiring cricketers around the world.
Future Prospects
As Jansen’s career progresses, it will be exciting to witness how he further refines his bowling craft and cements his place among the elite bowlers in international cricket. His journey from a struggling young talent to a confident match-winner serves as a reminder that success in sports is not just about talent but also about perseverance, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow.
With the upcoming match against New Zealand at Eden Gardens poised to be another chapter in Jansen’s evolving story, fans and critics alike will be eager to see how he rises to the occasion and continues to make his mark on the cricketing world.
Follow Marco Jansen’s journey as he navigates the highs and lows of professional cricket, inspiring fans and fellow cricketers with his determination, grit, and unwavering passion for the game.


