Dale Steyn is widely regarded as South Africa’s greatest-ever Test bowler, but a look at the statistics suggests there is a strong argument that the mantle should belong to Kagiso Rabada.
There’s no disputing that seeing either bowler steam in during a Test match is an incredibly intimidating sight for batsmen, but reputation does not always tell the full story.
The legendary Steyn began his Test career in 2004 before finally hanging up his boots in 2019.
Rabada, meanwhile, started his Test journey in 2015 and, despite turning 31 last month, is still going strong.
Steyn vs Rabada: A Riveting Comparison in Test Cricket
Both have enjoyed remarkable Proteas careers, but it is in the ultimate format of the game where the comparison between the pair becomes most intriguing.
Steyn played 93 Tests, taking 439 wickets at an average of 22.95 and a strike rate of 42.3. That means every wicket Steyn took came at a cost of just under 23 runs, and on average it took him 42 deliveries to claim a wicket.
Rabada has played 73 Tests, with 340 wickets to his name at an average of 22.02 and a strike rate of 39.5.
In fact, Rabada’s strike rate is the best among all bowlers who have played at least 22 Test matches. Who is second on that list? Steyn, of course.
Steyn Leads South Africa’s Test Wicket-Takers Despite Rabada’s Superior Bowling Average and Strike Rate
Steyn remains South Africa’s leading Test wicket-taker, with Rabada still 99 wickets short of that mark.
The Phalaborwa Express, however, may well retain his status as South Africa’s greatest-ever Test bowler even after Rabada’s playing days are over.
The reason is that South Africa simply does not play as much Test cricket these days, meaning Rabada is unlikely to feature in enough matches to seriously challenge Steyn’s wicket tally.
But if we’re judging the pair on the key measures of bowling average and strike rate, then the numbers suggest Rabada has the edge.
@Michael_Sherman
IOL Sport
* The views expressed are not necessarily the views of IOL or Independent Media.
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