SA vs AUS: Shoulder injury rules Dale Steyn out of Third Test

One of the best pacers around the world, Dale Steyn made a comeback to the national side this January after over a year. Steyn had to miss out on the action as he suffered a shoulder injury sustained against India irrespective of the fans’ delight on his comeback in the same series. He was all pumped up and was seen bowling as well as he ever did. There was no drop in the performance and it was a treat to watch him bowl in that match.

However, the happiness was short-lived as he had to be sidelined yet again due to a heel injury. Steyn was expected to recover in four to six weeks time and was to return for the Australia series. However, that wasn’t the case as he took longer time than expected to recover. Although he was to return to the side in the third Test, unfortunately, he won’t.

Would be praying extra hard for Dale Steyn to return

Dale Steyn has been a vital cog in the South African bowling line up over the years. He is a top-notch pacer and is just three wickets away to emerge as the leading wicket-taker for the Proteas. With Kagiso Rabada suspended for the next two Tests, the ‘Steyn-Gun’ was expected to fill in his shoes for these two games. But it looks like the Proteas will have to deal with further problems as Steyn hasn’t recovered from his injury completely.

Furthermore, Steyn has pulled out of the first-class fixture for his domestic side Titans. He was due to play for the Titans in the first-class competition this week to test his fitness. Meanwhile, South Africa skipper was not fully aware of Steyn’s situation. But he hopes to see the pacer fit in time for the fourth Test.

”Our plan for him was to play a game. But I would be praying extra hard that he would be ready for that third Test to make sure we can have him available if he [is fit]. On the spot now, I would assume probably on the fourth Test,” ESPNcricinfo quoted du Plessis, as saying. Steyn is now targeting the final round of franchise matches, beginning March 22. It is the same day as the third Test against Australia will commence. He would aim to get fit in time for the fourth and final match in Johannesburg.

The fans would also be praying for his recovery as they will want to watch Steyn bowling in tandem with Morne Morkel for one last time.