Here’s how Steyn replied to his comparison with Anderson
England fast bowler James Anderson once again showed that age is just a number by delivering a stunning spell on day five of the recently-concluded first Test against India at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium. The ageless England legend came up with a brilliant spell of reverse-swing bowling to all but end India’s challenge in a matter of a few balls.
In his very first over of day five, he castled in-form Shubman Gill and Ajinkya Rahane by extracting an unbelievable amount of reverse swing. He then accounted for in-form Rishabh Pant too to set England on their way to a comprehensive 227-run victory. Chasing an improbable 420, India’s batting crumbled like a pack of cards as the hosts were bowled out for a modest 192.
In the first innings too, Anderson had picked up a couple of wickets, helping England wipe off India’s tail quickly. India were all out for just 337 in the first innings to concede a massive lead of 241 runs. England, on the other hand, had scored a mammoth 578 in their first innings. In the second innings, England managed just 178 but the huge lead helped them set India a big total.
This performance from Anderson once against brought his comparison with Steyn in the limelight. Steyn played 22 Tests in Asia and picked up 92 wickets. He averaged just over 24 in the Asian conditions which do not help the pacers much. Anderson, on the other hand, has played 24 Tests in Asia so far and has picked up 71 wickets. The stats make it pretty clear that Steyn has been more effective in Asian conditions than Anderson.
Here’s what Steyn tweeted:
The only comparison required is that Jimmy is still going and I’m watching from my 20/20 sofa.
He’s a legend and seems to be getting better with age ?— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) February 10, 2021
And while the fans were busy comparing the two, Steyn himself decided to comment on it. Showing his modest nature once again, Steyn hailed Anderson as a legend before pointing out the difference between their current status. The 37-year old mentioned that while he is busy watching the action from his home, 38-year old Anderson is still playing.
