Nostalgia Cam: Steyn Gun salutes the genius of AB de Villiers

“There are only two games that I dread in a year - the two games I play against ABD."

This honest confession would not elicit a frown if it came from a rookie. That it was said by one of the most dreaded and accomplished bowlers of this generation is reflective of one, ABD’s greatness and two, Steyn’s humility and acknowledgment of that greatness.

In cricket, nothing comes close to a fast bowler’s ego. You hit him for a four and be ready for a bumper at your throat next delivery. There are exceptions to the rule but that comes after years of conditioning from the coach, the captain, and match awareness. The rawness of a fast bowler makes him immune to mortal traits like humility, modesty, and humbleness.

Dale Steyn, on few occasions, assumes a persona that is a subtle departure from his natural demeanor that’s tantamount to a street fighter – popping veins, fist pumps, and roars.

It was one such night.

Reeling at 95/5 RCB needed 61 off 33 against SRH. Yuvraj Singh had just been dismissed and the hopes rest once again on AB de Villiers. Two years ago, against Deccan Chargers, RCB were in a similar fix with 39 needed off 18 balls. ABD had clubbed 23 runs in Steyn's eighteenth over and finished the match.

But encores are not cakewalks, not against one of the greatest bowlers of your generation. Was there a card that was not exposed to the bowler last time? And what about the famed fast bowler’s ego?

ABD’s genius had brought the equation down to RCB needing 28 runs off the last 2 overs when ABD steamed in as Deja vu gripped fans.

Six balls later, de Villiers had done it again.

The over went for 24 runs, and Steyn couldn’t help but appreciate the genius of the compatriot for single-handedly dragging the challengers over the line.