Dale Steyn’s participation in the Cricket World Cup is in doubt after the South African paceman suffered a recurrence of a shoulder injury.
Talismanic seamer Steyn, who has 196 ODI scalps in 125 games, was named in the Proteas’ provisional 15-man squad last Thursday.
But the 35-year-old’s prospects of playing against England in the opening match of the World Cup, at The Oval on May 30, have slipped after he felt discomfort in his shoulder while playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League on Sunday.
“Upon assessment and subsequent investigations, a flare-up of his right shoulder was confirmed,” South Africa team manager Mohammed Moosajee 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.”
South Africa’s World Cup fixtures
Thursday 30 May: England v South Africa, The Kia Oval
Sunday 2 June: South Africa v Bangladesh, The Kia Oval
Wednesday 5 June: South Africa v India, The Ageas Bowl
Monday 10 June: South Africa v Windies, The Ageas Bowl
Saturday 15 June: South Africa v Afghanistan (day-nighter), SSE SWALEC
Wednesday 19 June: New Zealand v South Africa, Edgbaston
Sunday 23 June: Pakistan v South Africa, Lord’s
Friday 28 June: Sri Lanka v South Africa, Emirates Riverside
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