South African legend Dale Steyn expressed disappointment with modern pacers who focus solely on speed, expecting results to change within an over. The former cricketer said that Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah and South African bowler Kagiso Rabada as rare exceptions, describing them as the ‘gold’ standard.
T20 cricket has become batter-friendly, with batters adopting an ultra-aggressive approach, making 200-plus scores common. However, some bowlers still have the ability to shift momentum single-handedly. Steyn said that Jasprit Bumrah and Kagiso Rabada are elite pacers capable of containing batters.
Looking for the Guys That Have Got the Ability to Take Wickets – Dale Steyn
Dale Steyn stated that a fast bowler’s career is defined by their ability to deliver breakthroughs. Steyn, who also coaches in T20 leagues, said bowlers should have a strong mindset to take wickets rather than just focusing on pace.
“The game has changed a lot, honestly, with T20 cricket. And what I mean by that is the way batters approach the game these days. So when I’m looking for bowlers, especially in the (T20) leagues where I do a little bit of coaching, I’m looking for the guys that have got the ability to take wickets – massive wicket-taking mentality,” Steyn told The Cricket Monthly.
Jasprit Bumrah Is Probably the All-in-All Package – Dale Steyn
Dale Steyn said that Jasprit Bumrah and Kagiso Rabada are complete modern-day fast bowlers. He stated that they have the ability to take wickets at crucial moments. He added that producing such quality bowlers will strengthen fast-bowling stocks.
“You look at guys like Jasprit Bumrah, he’s probably the all-in-all package, him and KG Rabada They’ve got the ability to come and bowl at any particular time in a game and take a wicket. Those guys are like gold. So if you can produce more bowlers like that, we’ll start to see our fast-bowling stock get so much better. It’s not just about bowling 155kph these days or having tens of different types of skills, it’s really about being able to break the game open when your captain needs it,” Steyn added.
Jasprit Bumrah, Kagiso Rabada Set to Be Seen in Action in IPL 2025
Jasprit Bumrah played a crucial role in India’s success at the 2024 T20 World Cup, helping them secure the title after 17 years. However, the pacer is currently sidelined with a back injury. Bumrah also missed the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He is expected to miss the initial matches for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025.
Kagiso Rabada will play for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025 after being acquired for ₹10.75 crore in the mega auction. He was last seen in action during the ICC Champions Trophy, where South Africa were eliminated in the semifinals. Rabada took three wickets in three matches, averaging 25.5 with an economy rate of 5.80.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the opening match of the IPL 2025. The match is scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 22, at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
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