ICC World Cup 2019: Dale Steyn ruled out of South Africa’s opener against England

ICC World Cup 2019: Dale Steyn injured his shoulder during the recent Indian Premier League and will not be risked at the Oval.

Dale Steyn has been ruled out of South Africa’s World Cup opener against England on Thursday.

South Africa's fast bowler Dale Steyn stretches during a practice session. (REUTERS)

The 35-year-old paceman injured his shoulder during the recent Indian Premier League and will not be risked at the Oval.

“He’s not quite ready yet, not far away but not ready,” said head coach Ottis Gibson.

“We think with a six-week tournament there’s no real need to force the issue just now. He won’t be available for the first game. We’ve still got 14 others so we’ll choose from them.”

Steyn has not bowled competitively since pulling out of Royal Challengers Bangalore’s IPL campaign in late April, having played only two games there.