Ntini fit, Dale off to Aus

2006-01-16 17:08

Johannesburg - Titans strike bowler, Dale Steyn, will replace the injured Andre Nel in the Proteas team now contesting the Triangular Series against Australia and Sri Lanka in Australia.

This was announced on Monday by the convener of the national selectors, Haroon Lorgat.

Last week, Lorgat said that either Steyn or Makhaya Ntini, also sent home from Australia through injury, would replace Nel once Ntini had undergone a fitness Test in East London on Monday.

Lorgat said: "Makhaya underwent his fitness test after treatment for an injury to one of the tendons of his left hamstring, and although he passed fit, we have decided after careful consideration, not to subject him to the rigours of international cricket at this stage.

"He has made a wonderful recovery, but we would prefer to give him further rehabilitation and then play him in our Pro20 Series to fully prepare himself for the return series against Australia in South Africa.

"It also gives us an opportunity to develop our next generation of seam bowlers who are showing great promise.

"Consequently, we have chosen Dale Steyn to replace Andre Nel and he will leave later this week to the join the team as a back-up fast bowler.

"Dale's speed will add an extra option to our bowling attack if needed. He will also gain further valuable experience by being part of the Proteas set up again."

The 22-year-old Steyn, who bowls at speeds of up to 150km/h has played three Tests, taking eight wickets against England last season.

Lorgat said the injuries to both Nel (left foot stress) and Ntini should be fully rehabilitated in time for the Australian tour of South Africa next month.

The tour begins on February 24 and includes one Pro20 International, five ODIs, and three Tests.

- News24