'You Will Be Missed, Dale Steyn'- Royal Challengers Bangalore Expresses Gratitude Towards Paceman

South African fast bowling great Dale Steyn on Saturday (January 2) confirmed he will not be taking part in the 14th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Steyn, who plays for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), informed his fans via a tweet that he will be on a break during the period which coincides with the traditional IPL window in April & May.

RCB Gives A Heart Touching Message For Dale Steyn

“Just a short message to let everyone know that I’ve made myself unavailable for RCB at this years IPL, I’m also not planning on playing for another team, just taking some time off during that period. Thank you to RCB for understanding. No I’m not retired,” the paceman stated.

Steyn made it a point to clarify that he isn’t calling it quits and is only taking “some time off”.

I will be playing in other leagues, nicely spaced out to give myself a opportunity to do something’s I’ve been excited about as well as continue to play the game I love so much.

NO, I’m NOT retired. ?

Here’s to a great 2021 ?

— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) January 2, 2021

Soon after his tweet, the official RCB Twitter handle said the team will definitely miss the services of Dale Steyn in the forthcoming edition.

“You will be missed, Dale Steyn! Thank you for the memories and keep rooting for us,” the franchise tweeted.

You will be missed, Dale Steyn! Thank you for the memories and keep rooting for us. ??? https://t.co/7b4WZ348wZ

— Royal Challengers Bangalore (@RCBTweets) January 2, 2021

Dale Steyn took part in only 3 games in the IPL 2020 in UAE and was able to get only one wicket. The 37-year-old was used more as an off-field guide to young fast bowlers in the team led by Virat Kohli, which made it through to the play-offs.

Overall, Steyn has played 95 IPL games in his career with 97 wickets at an economy rate of 6.91.