Rohit Sharma is widely regarded as one of the most destructive white-ball batters in the history of the game. Known for his effortless six-hitting ability and calm approach at the crease, Rohit has turned the tide in countless matches for India.
He remains the only player in the world with three double centuries in ODIs, a feat that speaks volumes about his dominance in the format. Rohit has given nightmares to several bowlers around the world, but even the best have their challenges.
Despite his long list of incredible achievements, there was one bowler who made life genuinely difficult for him. And that bowler, according to Rohit himself, was Dale Steyn, the fiery pacer from South Africa.
In a candid chat with journalist Vimal Kumar on YouTube, Rohit opened up about the toughest bowler he’s ever faced.
“If a bowler who has ever challenged me and I enjoyed playing against him, then I’ll have to say Dale Steyn,” Rohit said.
“He is a class player, he has all the skills and I think this is the reason he doesn’t miss a bounce and can swing so fast. There are very few bowlers who can swing the ball at 140+ kmph, and he was someone who could do it consistently.”
Why Dale Steyn Was So Dangerous?
Dale Steyn wasn’t just fast, he was fearsomely accurate, swung the ball at high speeds, and could strike on any surface. Steyn’s bowling combined sheer pace, late movement, and unrelenting aggression. His ability to deliver outswingers with pinpoint precision at 145+ kmph made him a nightmare even for the best of batters.
Here is a quick look at Steyn’s stellar stats:
- 439 wickets in 93 Tests at an average of 22.95
- 196 wickets in 125 ODIs at an average of 25.95
- 64 wickets in 47 T20Is
- ICC Test Cricketer of the Year in 2008
- Spent a record 263 weeks as the No. 1 ranked Test bowler
Steyn wasn’t just about pace, his control and ability to move the ball late in the air or off the pitch made him one of the most complete fast bowlers of the modern era.