Gutsy Jansen implores plodding Proteas to simply show some attitude: 'We have the skills'

Eye-catching feats might be nice and even quell the increasing frustration of the local cricketing public to an extent, but Marco Jansen believes the Proteas could end their tour of Australia on a positive note by simply showcasing some attitude.

The beanpole 22-year-old can't be accused of underperforming Down Under over the past few weeks, claiming 3/32 in the first Test at the Gabba before crafting a career-best 59 batting at No 7 and bowling far better than his figures suggested at the MCG.

If anything, Jansen's teammates can take a leaf out of his book when the third and final Test in Sydney commences on Wednesday.

For the left-arm quick, who's made a storming start to his career in the pinnacle format of the game, Test matches are won or lost through less fashionable means, like gritting through a tough session with the bat or persevering despite an unrewarding spell.

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"I know everyone goes out there to give their best, but at the end of the day it's about trying to figure out what we can do as a team or individuals to really influence the game in a defining way," said Jansen.

"Whether it's taking five blows to the body while batting or bowling 7 or 8 overs on the trot, it's those things that matter. It's about recognising the moment and doing whatever you can within your power to influence or help the team. 

"You can say all these nice things about 150-plus partnerships or guys scoring double centuries, but it's not always a case where a team scores 500 runs and then win the game.

"Test cricket is sometimes like the first Test, where a partnership of 80 wins you the game. My focus is on identifying those type of moments and