Marco Jansen Achieves 100 Test Wickets Milestone Against Australia

South African all-rounder Marco Jansen has made history by reaching 100 Test wickets during the third Test against Australia. This achievement not only highlights his bowling prowess but also his contributions with the bat. Jansen's remarkable speed in achieving this milestone places him among the fastest bowlers in cricket history. As he continues to excel in the ongoing series, his performances have propelled him to the top of the ICC Test rankings for bowlers and all-rounders. Discover more about Jansen's journey and his impact on the game.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 28, 2026, 19:58 IST

Marco Jansen's Remarkable Milestone

In a significant achievement, South African all-rounder Marco Jansen reached the milestone of 100 Test wickets during the third Test match against Australia held in Cape Town on Wednesday. Jansen, who started the match with 99 wickets, accomplished this feat by dismissing Matt Renshaw in the 50th over of Australia's first innings. He quickly followed up by taking the wicket of Cameron Green in his next over, marking his second wicket of the match.

Fastest to 100 Wickets

Playing in his 24th Test, Jansen is now tied for the fourth-fastest South African to achieve 100 Test wickets based on the number of matches played. He shares this position with Peter Pollock. The record for the fewest matches taken to reach this milestone is held by Vernon Philander, who did it in just 19 Tests. Dale Steyn reached the mark in 20 matches, while Hugh Tayfield, Allan Donald, and Kagiso Rabada achieved it in 22 Tests.

Outstanding Performance and Rankings

Jansen's achievement is also notable for the speed at which he reached this landmark in terms of deliveries bowled. With a total of 3,864 balls, he became the third-fastest bowler in the post-war era to secure 100 Test wickets, following Dale Steyn (3,631 deliveries) and Philander (3,792 balls). This milestone adds to an impressive series for the 26-year-old, who has made significant contributions with both bat and ball during the ongoing series against Australia.

In the first two Tests, Jansen took 10 wickets and provided crucial runs from the lower order. His standout performance was in the second Test, where he claimed five wickets for just 33 runs, helping to bowl Australia out for 99 in their first innings. Earlier, he contributed 85 runs while batting at No. 8, showcasing his all-round capabilities.

ICC Rankings Update

Jansen's impressive performances have been recognized in the latest ICC Test rankings, where he has ascended to the top of the bowlers' standings with 876 rating points. He has also claimed the No. 1 position among Test all-rounders, ending a long reign at the top for another player. In the ongoing third Test, South Africa scored 329 in their first innings, while Australia was at 191/4 at tea on Day 2, trailing by 138 runs, with Jansen having taken two wickets.

Conclusion

Reaching the 100-wicket milestone is a significant accomplishment in Jansen's Test career, as the left-arm pacer continues to solidify his role as a vital member of South Africa's bowling lineup while consistently contributing with the bat.