OTD| Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn was born in 1983

Regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of the modern era, former South Africa cricketer Dale Steyn was born on 27 June 1983. With his late swing and excellent pace, Steyn stood out from the rest of the bowlers and became an intimidating figure for the batters. His cheetah-like spirit, cartwheeling the stumps as he stormed into the crease with a roar on his face was one of the most beautiful sights of the past.

Born in the small town of Phalaborwa, Steyn made his first-class debut for Northerns in 2003. Although he failed to make a significant impact in the first season, he was impressive in the 2004/05 season, which helped him gain a place in the South African national team. He struggled to find form initially and the period between 2007 and 2011 was considered his most successful years.

The 41-year-old has represented the Proteas team in 93 Tests, 125 ODIs and 47 T20Is and has taken 437, 196 and 64 wickets respectively. He has also played for multiple franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The right-arm aggressive fast bowler is known for bowling at speeds of over 150 kmph. His fastest delivery is being recorded as 156.7 km/h – for Royal Challengers Bangalore against Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2010 IPL.

Notably, Steyn claimed 78 wickets at an average of 16.24 during the 2007–08 season, earning him the title of ICC 2008 Test Cricketer of the Year.

Wisden Cricketers of the Year in 2013, Wisden Cricketers of the Decade in 2019, the ICC Test Team of the Decade at the end of 2020 are the other notable achievements of the star pacer.

On 31 August 2021, Steyn announced his retirement from all forms of cricket and took up the role of bowling coach in franchise leagues. He was appointed as the fast-bowling coach of IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad for the 2022 season. He also trained the Major League Cricket side Washington Freedom in the 2023 season.

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