South African pacer Dale Steyn made himself unavailable to represent
the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) squad in the Indian Premier League (IPL)
2021 on Saturday, but noted that he has not retired.

Saying he will be playing in other leagues during the time, the South
African who retired from Test cricket in 2019 as South Africa’s highest
wicket-taker in the format, said on Twitter “Cricket tweet. Just a short
message to let everyone know that I’ve made myself unavailable for RCB at this
years IPL, I’m also not planning on playing for another team, just taking some
time off during that period. Thank you to RCB for understanding. No I’m not
retired”.

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In a subsequent tweet, the Proteas veteran revealed more of his plans,
as he said, “I will be playing in other leagues, nicely spaced out to give
myself a opportunity to do something’s I’ve been excited about as well as
continue to play the game I love so much. NO, I’m not retired. Winking face.
Here’s to a great 2021.”

Steyn finished his Test career with 439 wickets from 93 matches, with
an average of 22.95 and a trike of 42.30, whereas in One Day Internationals, he
acquired 195 wickets from 125 matches, averaging at 25.9 and a strike rate of
31.9.

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Representing RCB since several years now, Steyn played in three
matches in the IPL 2020, picking up one wicket.