Birthday special: Dale Steyn – Lesser-known facts about the pace machine

On June 27, 2023, former South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn turns 40 years old. Steyn made his international debut way back in December 2004 against England during a Test Match. The speedster went on to represent his country in 93 Tests, 125 ODIs and 47 T20Is.

Steyn etched his name in the history books as he ruled the Test bowler’s rankings for a number of years and became the leading wicket-taker in South Africa’s Test history with 439 scalps to his name. His career came to an end as he struggled with multiple injuries and announced his retirement from all forms of the game in August 2021. As the South African legend turns 40, let’s take a look at some lesser-known facts about Steyn:

1. Steyn didn’t make his ODI debut for South Africa

The Phalaborwa-born seamer made his ODI debut representing Africa XI and not South Africa. The 22-year-old dismissed Ashish Nehra to pick his maiden ODI wicket. Four months later he played his first ODI for South Africa against Australia.

2. The speedster has the Best bowling strike rate of all time in Tests

Steyn has an all-time best strike rate of 42.3 in Tests among bowlers who have delivered over 10,000 balls.

3. Only pacer to take five-for against all Test-playing nations he played against

The seamer unleashed his wrath on every opposition he faced and took a five-wicket haul against all of them.

4. Steyn got a break in Hollywood

Having one of the fittest bodies in world cricket, Steyn even got a chance to flaunt his chiselled physique in Hollywood. He acted in a movie named Blended, boasting of a cameo of himself.

5. Enjoys fishing more than fast bowling

Steyn has 699 wickets to his name in international cricket, however, he still enjoys fishing more than fast bowling. The fast bowler once said that he might get dropped if he fails to take a wicket. But if he fails to catch a fish, he can at least go fishing again.