Fragile Dale Steyn decides not to rush his comeback

Dale Steyn’s comeback after shoulder surgery has been delayed again after the Proteas fast bowler decided not to rush back into action in a four-day game and has ruled himself out of the Titans’ opening Sunfoil Series match next week.

Steyn felt his shoulder flare up again while doing a fitness test and was sent for an MRI scan.

In the meantime, he has also decided that playing a four-day game is perhaps asking a bit much for his first competitive cricket since last November.

The Proteas were hoping to have Steyn at their disposal for the two big home Test series against India and Australia in the coming season.

Close friend Jacques Kallis, who now “owns” Steyn as the coach of the Cape Town Knight Riders, said he is sure the 34-year-old will be better for a slower start to the season.

“It’s a very mature decision he’s made and I think he will still have a massive impact this season,” Kallis said.

“When he’s fully fit he’s as dangerous as any bowler in the world and he will be 100% at some stage. I know he’s as hungry as ever, he’s hungry to achieve and he will normally always find a way to do that.”