Proteas coach speaks about Dale Steyn's inclusion in the 1st Test

South African pacer Dale Steyn is unlikely to play the first Test match against India. Ahead of the series, Proteas coach Ottis Gibson hinted that Steyn might not be included in the playing XI. However, there’s no concern regarding his fitness.

South Africa will be looking forward to getting the right combination for the game. With conditions in Cape Town likely to assist pacers, there’s a possibility that the hosts will go in with four pacers including an all-rounder. At the press conference at Newlands, Ottis Gibson took a stand on Steyn’s return to the squad immediately after he is available.

We will pick the best team to win the Test match

The South African coach remarked that the playing XI will be picked after assessing the conditions. He was doubtful regarding Steyn’s inclusion. Gibson felt that it depended upon the team combination. He further described that irrespective of anything, they were focused on picking the best side.

“We have to take each set of conditions as we find them and try and select the best team for the conditions we have,” Gibson said. “We don’t know just yet if we’re going to see him (Steyn) this weekend coming, but depending on the make-up of the team he might well play.”

We wouldn’t want to take the Steyn risk

If the Proteas decide to go in with a superior bowling attack, there’s a chance that the veteran will be considered. However, if Keshav Maharaj or a specialist all-rounder in Chris Morris or Andile Phehlukwayo are preferred, Steyn may have to sit out.

Gibson explained that since Steyn hasn’t played a Test for over a year, they didn’t want to risk him so early in the season. While he stated that everyone was fit and available, there was a slim chance of Steyn dislodging one of Kagiso Rabada, Morne Morkel or Vernon Philander for a spot on Friday.

“I don’t think that if we were to pick a three-man seam attack plus a spinner that you would want to put him in that attack in case something happens and he leaves the team vulnerable. That’s not to say that he won’t finish the game, but you wouldn’t want to take that risk with the first game of the summer. We have to just look at the best combination of players that we have, and he will come into the discussion,” the coach mentioned.