South Africa Cricket team confirmed head coach Ottis Gibson confirmed on Tuesday, veteran South Africa pacer, Dale Steyn has been ruled out of the South Africa's CWC 2019 opener against England. The much hyped match was set to kick off the 50-overs mega tournament at The Oval on Thursday.

The 35-year-old veteran bowler is not at his best as he is still recovering from the shoulder injury he picked up during Indian Premier League.

"He is getting closer everyday; we hope that if not by Sunday [against Bangladesh] then by the India game [on 5 June]," said Ottis Gibson, the coach, of his expected return.

This news was a big blow to South African team as they are heavily dependent on their leading fast bowler. If Steyn misses out Sunday's match against Bangladesh at the same venue, he probably might play his first match against India in Southampton on June 5.

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