Dale Steyn called time on his incredible Test career this week, and the plaudits have come from right around the world for the brilliant fast bowler.

Steyn holds a strong affinity with the Northerns Cricket Union and the Multiply Titans, and the Sky Blues family paid a rich tribute to the pace legend .

“We are hugely proud of everything that Dale achieved over the course of his outstanding Test career,” said Northerns Cricket Union President, Tebogo Siko. “Dale was the embodiment of a proud South African, and his achievements around the world are testimony to what can be achieved through dedication and hard work.

“Titans Chief Executive, Dr. Jacques Faul, was also fulsome in his praise for the swing merchant, noting that he had provided SuperSport Park with plenty of thrills over the years. “He was a phenomenal performer, and he faced some of his very best stuff for his home ground. I think it was fitting that he broke the Test wickets record for his country on this ground, in front of so many friends and family,” Faul expressed.

For many fans across the world, Steyn’s attitude towards fans from all walks of life always stood out. “He is a special breed. His cricket skills make him a global superstar, but his human skills make him a global citizen. It was a privilege to watch how he terrorised batsmen and was then so gentle with thousands of kids who wanted a picture or an autograph,” Faul added.

“It was very tough to see him get injured in the last World Cup, because we all know how hard he worked to get back.”

Of course, Steyn is not quite to be with international cricket, and still holds hope to be part of the T20 World Cup next year. Anyone who works in cricket would begrudge him having one final tilt at glory, because all of his pace and skills are still there for all to see.

Steyn, 36, retires from Test cricket with 439 wickets from 93 matches.