Dale Steyn is aiming to be fit for the fourth Test against Australia: Graeme Smith

Morne Morkel is expected to replace Kagiso Rabada in the squad.

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Dale Steyn
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Dale Steyn. (Photo by Shaun Roy/Gallo Images/Getty Images)

Proteas fast bowler Dale Steyn has been a key contributor for his side, especially in the longest format of the game. But he has been forced to sit out due to a lot of injuries that have severely hampered his career in the past one year. The South African team remarked a stunning fightback to equalize the four-match Test series 1-1 by defeating the Aussies by six wickets in the second Test match. Previously, it was also revealed that Steyn is reportedly not fit enough to be a part of the national team for the upcoming third Test match against Australia, which starts on March 22.

Steyn still requires time to recover

Recently, Steyn got injured during the first Test match against India in January, after which he was ruled out the Test series. He was expected to be out of action for about four to six weeks having hurt his heel tissue in the Test match. Whereas the hosts suffered a disheartening setback yet again, as their current leading paceman Kagiso Rabada was handed a 2-match ban for his inappropriate aggression after dismissing Aussie skipper Steve Smith during the second Test match.

It is not just Rabada, the team will continue to take field in the series without Steyn. Former South African captain Graeme Smith shared some details about Steyn’s recovery.

“I think Dale Steyn is still a little bit behind in his recovery. I spoke to him this morning actually. He says he’s bowling well but it’s taking him a bit of time to recover after spells so I think he’s targeting that fourth Test to be available,” said Smith as quoted by cricket.com.au.

Morne Morkel to replace Rabada in the third Test

Considering both Steyn and Rabada are not available for the third Test match, veteran fast bowler Morne Morkel will most likely return to lead the bowling attack for his side. Morkel was a part of the South African team in the first Test match but managed to pick up only 3 wickets in the match after which he was replaced by young pace sensation Lungisani Ngidi in the next game. The Proteas veteran who is just 3 shy of reaching 300 Test wickets will also be retiring from international cricket after the conclusion of this Test series.

“I think it would be a natural thing for Morne Morkel to come in. For him, close to 300 Test wickets, he’s an experienced guy, (playing his) last series. You’d want him make a big impact if he does get that opportunity,” added Smith on Morkel’s inclusion for the third Test.

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