Shaun Pollock feels Dale Steyn deserves his record

Former Proteas all-rounder Shaun Pollock reckons Dale Steyn deserves to overtake him as the highest wicket-taking South African bowler in Test cricket. Steyn is four away from reaching the 421 wickets mark which would tie him with Pollock as the all-time leading wicket-taker for the nation in Test cricket.

The 34-year-old has not played cricket since November last year when he injured his shoulder against Australia in Perth. However, he is on the verge of a comeback to the Protean outfit as his move from the Cape Cobras to the Titans suggests. He has been posting his training and net sessions videos indicating the effort he is putting in for the return.

Pollock said that Steyn, who is eagerly waiting to get back on the field, needs cricket to gain back not only the belief in himself, but in the Proteas selectors and fans. “He needs his cricket to show us where he is at. I saw on Twitter he had a video of him in the nets – I mean he is operating probably there at 60% or 70%,” Pollock told Sport24 in an interview.

“I think he just needs cricket for his own confidence and how the injury has come on and most importantly to show the selectors and South African public what he is still capable of. It will be wonderful if he is still back to his best. He is a class player to watch and wish him well,” he added

High praise

The all-rounder who played 108 Tests for the South Africa until his retirement in 2008, is of the opinion that not only will Steyn surpass his record, but will be the best bowler the country has ever produced by the time he finishes his career.

“He deserves it (the record), he really does,” exclaimed Pollock. “He has been the best fast bowler we have ever produced since readmission for me. The way he has gone about things and the way he has performed in all conditions – he has just been brilliant. So there’s no doubt he deserves to get it and I hope it comes soon,” he stated.