INDIA: As the cricketing world gears up for the much-anticipated 2023 World Cup, former South African pace maestro Dale Steyn has cast his expert eye on the tournament’s pace bowling prospects. In a surprising move, Steyn has left out some prominent names but has singled out five fast bowlers who he believes will shine on the world stage.
1. Mohammed Siraj (India)
Stealing the spotlight in Dale Steyn’s selection is India’s very own Mohammed Siraj. The young speedster has been in exceptional form leading up to the World Cup and has become India’s go-to pacer, alongside the more established Jasprit Bumrah.
Siraj’s outstanding performances in the Asia Cup, where he claimed a remarkable six-wicket haul in the final against Sri Lanka, have cemented his place as a crucial player for the Indian team. With 54 ODI wickets to his name in just 30 games, Siraj’s average of 20 speaks volumes about his ability to make an impact.
2. Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan)
Pakistan’s Shaheen Afridi is next on Steyn’s list of bowlers to watch out for. Known for his ability to trouble even the best batsmen, Afridi has been a thorn in the side of Indian captain Rohit Sharma.
With 86 wickets in 44 ODI matches for Pakistan at an impressive average of 23.4, Afridi’s consistency and knack for taking key wickets make him a potent force in the tournament.
3. Kagiso Rabada (South Africa)
Despite a recent dip in form, South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada finds a place on Steyn’s list due to his wealth of experience and skills. His knowledge of Indian conditions and his ability to deliver under pressure make him a formidable opponent. Rabada boasts 144 wickets in 92 ODI matches for South Africa at an average of 27, showcasing his pedigree.
4. Trent Boult (New Zealand)
Trent Boult returns to the New Zealand national team for the World Cup after initial contract disputes. The left-arm pacer is known for his deadly inswingers, pinpoint accuracy, and the ability to move the ball both ways.
Boult’s record of 197 wickets in 104 ODI games at an average of 23.6 underscores his ability to trouble batsmen with his swing and consistency.
5. Mark Wood (England)
Mark Wood’s inclusion in Dale Steyn’s list highlights his raw pace, consistently clocking over 150 km/h. Wood’s express pace makes him a daunting prospect for batsmen, especially on Indian pitches where the bounce can be unpredictable. His presence in the England lineup adds an extra dimension to their bowling attack.
While Dale Steyn’s selection may raise eyebrows due to the omission of established names like Jasprit Bumrah and Mitchell Starc, his choices reflect the potential and unique qualities of these five fast bowlers.
As the World Cup 2023 approaches, cricket enthusiasts around the world eagerly await to see if Steyn’s predictions will come to fruition and if these emerging talents can make their mark on the global stage.
Also Read: 2023 ODI World Cup: Players on the Brink of Farewell
