The last ten days have been quite up and down for South African speedster Dale Steyn. He joined the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on 16 April and played the first match for them on 19 April. Steyn triggered a couple of wins for RCB suffering from an old shoulder injury.

After playing against the Chennai Super Kings on 21 April, he felt a swelling on his right shoulder. He missed the match against Kings XI Punjab on 24 April. After some tests, he was ruled out of IPL 2019. It is a major concern for RCB and more so for the South African national team ahead of the World Cup 2019.

Sanjeev Churiwala, Chairman of RCB stated, “Dale Steyn has been prescribed with ample rest due to inflammation in his shoulder. On account of state of his health, Dale will not be available to take part further in the ongoing season of IPL. His presence has helped the team immensely and we are very thankful for the inspiration and passion that he brought to the squad. The team will deeply miss his energy and presence around. We wish him a speedy recovery and all the luck for all future endeavours.”

With the injury being a potential threat to Steyn’s run in the World Cup, the South African team manager Dr. Mohammed Moosajee stated the importance of rest for the 35-year-old pacer.

He said, “Upon assessment and subsequent investigations, a flare-up of his right shoulder was confirmed. With the World Cup around the corner, it is our priority to get him back to full fitness before the squad departs on May 19. He will consult with a shoulder specialist upon his return and a recovery plan will be put in place.”

Steyn has been in brilliant form as he took two wickets each in both the games that he played in the IPL. The South African bowling attack will get a boost if he is declared fit and is ready to go for the mega event.

(With Reuters inputs)