WATCH: Rusty Dale Steyn smashed on comeback

Dale Steyn’s return to competitive cricket went by injury free but that didn’t mean he bowled particularly well.

The 34-year-old Proteas quick played his first match for English county Hampshire on Wednesday evening in a bid to prove his fitness for next month’s tour to Sri Lanka.

According to reports, Steyn regularly hit speeds in the 130+ km/h range and looked fit.

But he conceded 80 runs in his 10-over spell on a day where 716 runs were scored in 100 overs.

Steyn was particularly expensive early on, getting whacked for 18 runs in his second over.

Hampshire captain, James Vince, though believes he became better as his spell progressed.

“I thought he bowled well especially at the end,” Vince said as per ESPNCricinfo.

“Up front he went for a few but also had a few dropped off him which could have affected the way he went.

“He only got off the plane a couple of days ago so hopefully he only gets better and better the longer he stays with us. He is a great bowler in all formats. He is a great asset to have and hopefully builds on today.”

The Proteas will hope so too.