Dale Steyn And AB De Villiers Still Have A Lot To Offer: Mike Hesson

South African stalwarts in AB de Villiers and Dale Steyn’s landing in Dubai last week along with Chris Morris came as a relief for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). AB de Villiers and Dale Steyn are amongst two of the most celebrated cricketers in the nation and been brilliant players for the franchise. And RCB director Mike Hesson feels that the duo has a lot to offer despite the lack of cricket under their belt.

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AB de Villiers quit international cricket in May 2018; however, he decided to continue playing franchise cricket. The former South African captain last played in the 3TC format contested in South Africa recently in which fared exceptionally well.

As for Dale Steyn, his injury-prone body forced him to give up Test cricket last year. He last played for the Proteas in a T20 against Australia in March in Johannesburg.

Mike Hesson reminded De Villiers’ exploits when the 3TC cricket took place in South Africa and ending up as the standout player. The fact that he carted the ball around the park even after not holding a bat in months is a testament of how good a player he is. Hesson underlined his performances over the last year in franchise cricket and is good shape physically and mentally.

“Only a matter of weeks ago he took part in a match in South Africa and once again he was a standout player, having just come out of his living room. So that certainly showed the quality of player he is.

“He’s had very, very good franchise tournaments around the world the last 12 months and he’s in good touch. Physically, he’s feeling good and refreshed. And once again, he’s one of the few in the group that are absolutely chomping at the bit to get into training,” Hesson told in a virtual media conference from Dubai.

Dale Steyn’s developing the game: Mike Hesson

The former New Zealand coach added that Dale Steyn is developing well and bowling some jaffas in the last six months or so. Hence, the 45-year -old believes that the veteran speedster is nowhere close to retiring and keen to make a mark in the IPL. The tournament begins from the 19th of September in the UAE.

“He’s developing his game. We saw some different deliveries that he’s been able to develop over the last six months. So he’s certainly not ready to retire yet, certainly very keen to make a contribution this IPL,” the Dunedin-born added.

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