Published: Aug 07, 2019, 10:09 PM (IST)
Edited: Aug 07, 2019, 10:09 PM (IST)
Tributes are pouring in for Dale Steyn who has called time on his Test career following a prolong struggle with various injuries.
READ: Five of Dale Steyn’s best bowling performances
New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has wished Steyn, congratulating him on his incredible Test career.
However, what makes his tribute unique is the fact that he shared the picture of his abdominal guard which Steyn ‘cracked’ during a Test between New Zealand and South Africa in 2013.
“The box @dalesteyn cracked back in 2013 – OUCH! Kind of him to sign it after the match though. Congratulations on an incredible Test career mate #steyn #alwayswearabox,” Williamson posted on his Instagram account.
After hitting the him flush on the box, Steyn with a straight face, said he won’t apologise even as Williamson sunk down in pain.
Steyn represented South Africa in 93 Tests after making his debut in December 2004, scalped 439 wickets, the most by any from his country in the format.
“Today I walk away from a format of the game I love so much. In my opinion Test cricket is the best version of this game. It tests you mentally, physically, emotionally,” Steyn had said while making his decision public.
Steyn, 36, last played a Test when South Africa faced Sri Lanka in February earlier this year. In his illustrious career, Steyn scalped 25 five-wicket hauls and 5 ten-wicket hauls. While 7/51 remains his best figures in a Test innings, 11/60 remains his best figures a Test match.
He will continue to play limited-overs cricket. “It’s terrible to consider never playing another Test again but what’s more terrifying is the thought of never playing again at all. So I will be focusing on ODIs and T20s for the rest of my career to maximise my full potential and ensure my longevity in this sport,” he said.
