South Africa pace bowler Dale Steyn has announced that he won’t take part in the 2021 edition of the Indian T20 League.

Taking to Twitter, the 37-year-old stated that he intends to take some time off from cricket, however, the Bangalore pacer added that he was not retiring.

“Just a short message to let everyone know that I’ve made myself unavailable for RCB at this year’s 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.” Steyn tweeted.

Interestingly, the right-arm fast bowler had earlier retired from Test cricket in August 2019 to prolong his limited-overs career.

Meanwhile, in his second tweet, Steyn put out his intention to play in other franchise leagues.

“I will be playing in other leagues, nicely spaced out to give myself an 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 made his Indian T20 League debut with Bangalore in 2008 and was initially bought back by the franchise in 2019 as an injury replacement for Nathan Coulter-Nile.

At the auctions for the 2020 edition, the South African was purchased for two crore rupees but the move went downhill as Steyn featured just three times, claiming one wicket and conceding 10 runs per over.

Bangalore reacted warmly to Steyn’s announcement and thanked him for his contributions. “You will be missed, Dale Steyn! Thank you for the memories and keep rooting for us.”

Last year, Dale Steyn was included in South Africa’s T20I series against England and he ironed out his desire to play in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup/

Feature image courtesy: Manjunath KIRAN / AFP

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South AfricaIndian Premier League, 2021BangaloreDale Steyn Indian T20 League