South Africa vs Sri Lanka 2019: Test Series review

#4 Dale Steyn is still not at his best

Dale Steyn's performance was below par in the series

In the first Test, Dale Steyn came tantalizingly close to getting his first five-for since his return. But a dropped catch prevented him from achieving this milestone. However, Steyn bowled a marathon spell of 10 overs in search of his fifth wicket which underlined his physical fitness.

While there are no doubts left on that front, Steyn’s form is still not what one expects. He is, arguably, the best bowler of this current generation. In the past, he has performed splendidly in all conditions and in all situations.

His inability to pick the last wicket in the final innings of the first Test, despite having the new ball, coupled with no scalps in the second Test suggest that he is far from his peak. This is not the Steyn of old who could make the ball curve in the most audacious way and turn matches around on the most placid pitches.

Steyn’s form is a big concern for South Africa. Both for the upcoming World Cup and their future Test engagements, South Africa need Steyn to be roaring. At the moment, he is not doing that. The speeds are good and the consistency is not lacking. The economy rates testify to that.

But he is not getting the ball to perform those tricks which he did in the past. This would worry him. History shows that Steyn comes back strongly when his back is against the wall. Who knows, this loss could spur him on to greater things.