Cricket

In the high-scoring era of T20 cricket, where teams routinely surpass 200 runs, the art of bowling has become increasingly challenging. However, legendary South African pacer Dale Steyn believes that this is precisely the time when bowlers can achieve greatness.Steyn's comments came after witnessing another explosive batting display in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, where Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders posted scores well above 200. "I could make a joke and say I'm glad I'm retired and no longer bowling, but... It's always a good time to be a bowler, if you can make yourself the best, you'll be a wanted god among mere mortals," Steyn tweeted.The former Proteas star emphasized that in an era where batters are dominating, a skilled bowler would be revered as a deity. "The slayer of rampaging runs! Insensitives have never been higher. I'd want to be a bowler more than anything!" he added.Steyn's sentiments were echoed by fans, with one suggesting that the key to success in modern-day bowling is to emulate Jasprit Bumrah. Steyn agreed, acknowledging Bumrah's exceptional ability to control the flow of runs despite the batter-friendly conditions."Well, exactly that," Steyn replied to the fan.Bumrah, the current purple cap holder in the IPL, has been a standout performer, claiming 13 wickets in 7 matches at an impressive average of 12.84 and an economy rate of 5.96. His ability to restrict runs and take wickets has made him a valuable asset for his team, Mumbai Indians.Steyn's comments highlight the importance of adaptability and skill in the face of the ever-evolving nature of T20 cricket. While the odds may seem stacked against bowlers, those who can master their craft and rise above the challenges will be the ones who truly shine.

Former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn has expressed his admiration for MS Dhoni, stating that watching the Chennai Super Kings icon on the field lifts his spirits. Steyn, known for his fiery pace and incisive swing bowling, shared his thoughts on Dhoni's enduring popularity in a recent interview."The craze for Dhoni has engulfed not only the IPL but also many in South Africa, including myself," Steyn said. "I don't watch much TV, but I find myself glued to the screen when the IPL is on, especially when MS is playing."Steyn, who has faced Dhoni's batting prowess firsthand, praised the former India captain's ability to inspire fans. "I've been on the receiving end of his brilliance before, and I've loved it," he said. "I'm in a much better mood after watching him play. We need more MS Dhoni on the field."Dhoni, who relinquished the CSK captaincy ahead of the ongoing season, continues to be a vital cog in the team's batting lineup. Despite battling a knee injury, the 41-year-old has maintained his exceptional form, hitting boundaries with ease.Steyn's comments highlight Dhoni's enduring legacy as one of the most iconic cricketers of all time. His leadership, tactical acumen, and match-winning abilities have made him a fan favorite around the world.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has appointed James Franklin, the former New Zealand fast bowler, as their pace bowling coach for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Franklin replaces Dale Steyn, who has taken a break from the franchise due to personal reasons.Franklin, who played 31 Tests, 110 ODIs, and 38 T20Is for New Zealand from 2001 to 2013, brings a wealth of experience to the SRH coaching staff. He previously played for Mumbai Indians in the IPL during the 2011 and 2012 seasons.This will be Franklin's first coaching stint in the IPL, but he has previous coaching experience with Durham in English county cricket and Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League. At SRH, he will reunite with his former teammate Daniel Vettori, who was appointed as the team's head coach after IPL 2023.Franklin's appointment is part of a wider revamp of the SRH coaching staff. The franchise has also appointed Australian Pat Cummins as their new captain. SRH will begin their IPL 2024 campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on March 23.Franklin's expertise in pace bowling is expected to be a valuable asset for SRH, which has struggled with its bowling in recent seasons. The franchise will be hoping that Franklin can help them develop a more potent bowling attack and challenge for the IPL title.

Former South African pace legend Dale Steyn will not be part of the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) coaching staff for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Steyn has requested a break from his coaching responsibilities, prompting the franchise to search for a replacement bowling coach.Steyn's departure comes after a successful stint with SRH, where he played a pivotal role in the development of young speedster Umran Malik. Malik has since earned an India cap in T20Is and ODIs, and recently received a fast-bowling contract from the BCCI.Despite his absence, Steyn is expected to return to the franchise next season if all necessary arrangements are met. SRH has already appointed former New Zealand left-arm spinner Daniel Vettori as their new head coach.The franchise is also considering appointing Pat Cummins as their captain for the upcoming season. Cummins, who was acquired for a whopping INR 20.5 crore in the auction last year, has led Australia to victory in the 2023 World Test Championship and Men's ODI World Cup.SRH, who finished at the bottom of the points table last year, will be hoping for a turnaround under Vettori and Cummins' leadership. They will open their 2024 campaign on March 23 against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Eden Gardens, followed by their first home match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on March 27 against Mumbai Indians.