Former South African Test pacer, Dale Steyn can be termed as one of the best fast bowlers Proteas have ever seen. Though he has been struggling with a lot of injuries in recent times, he has done enough for his country before retiring from Tests recently with 439 wickets to his name and his achievements are a source of inspiration for his teammate Lungi Ngidi.
Ngidi’s World Cup stint in England was also cut short due to injury. But he’s recovered now and will be playing in the Test series against India. In Steyn’s absence, Ngidi is expected to play a crucial role for the visitors and the pacer is getting into the groove while playing for South Africa A against India A.
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Speaking of Steyn, Ngidi praised the veteran for time and again being there for his teammates. As per the quotes in Sportstar, Ngidi said, “Steyn has the perfect blueprint for a fast bowler. Taking 400 Test wickets is something all of us aspire to achieve. He has been very influential; he gives us a lot of good advise. Having him around is great for the team.”
Ngidi has scalped six wickets in three innings so far and sent down 39 overs on his comeback which proves that he is fit and raring to go against India.
Talking about his injury, the young pacer said, “The hamstring injury was caused maybe because I was trying to bowl too fast. Missing the latter half of the World Cup was disappointing, but injuries are a part of life. I went straight to my recovery routine, and now I’m feeling very fit. I’ve done a lot of training to recover from the injury. I’m happy with the way I’m bowling, and I want to keep the rhythm going.”
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Ngidi lost his father last year during the IPL and is determined to make him proud with his performance for the country. He said, “My father was my biggest supporter; that spot has been taken by my mum now. His demise was unfortunate and sudden. He wanted to see me play for South Africa and in the IPL – I’m happy that he got to see both. Life, death – it happens. I know he’s watching me from above, so I make him proud.”
