In form of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Approach, South Africa is officially unveiled its 15-member squadAiming to ultimately secure their first global title. led by aiden markramThe selection places a heavy emphasis on raw speed, but also includes stars such as Kagiso Rabada And Enrique Nortje Shadowed by a major selection controversy.
South African legend Dale Steyn The in-form fast bowler has publicly expressed his disappointment at being dropped, sparking a heated debate on social media. While the Proteas have opted for high-velocity options, the absence of one of the most consistent performers in the domestic circuit has made fans and experts question the balance of the team. The decision is particularly shocking given the bowler’s record-breaking performances in the current SA20 season.
Dale Steyn is angry with the fast bowler being dropped from South Africa’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad
On January 6, 2026, Stan expressed his disbelief at her neglect on Twitter. otniel bartmanA player whom he trained as a bowling coach for three seasons Sunrisers Eastern CapeSteyn argued that Bartman has developed into “one of South Africa’s best white-ball bowlers” and that his omission was impossible to justify given his current form, “He’s the leading wicket-taker in SA20, won the league twice and made the final… This is a comp that has all Proteas players apart from 4 international players! He’s No. 1.” Stan tweeted. The legendary fast bowler insisted that Bartman has been delivering “high quality” performances against the best batsmen in the world but he will be inappropriately “sitting at home” during the major tournaments in India and Sri Lanka.
We really need to start looking at Bartman as one of South Africa’s best white ball bowlers.
He is the highest wicket taker in SA20, he won the league twice and made the final, let me remind you, this is a comp that includes 4 international players (often batsmen) and all the Proteas! That number is…
– Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) 5 January 2026
Steyn’s support focused on Bartman’s unique ability to execute accurate yorkers and variations that distinguished him from the ‘raw speed’ bowlers favored by the selectors. He pointed out that Bartman’s tactical execution makes him almost unstoppable in the death overs, a phase where the Proteas have historically struggled. Steyn’s post received a huge response from the cricket community, with many agreeing that the selection panel was led patrick moroneyReputation may take priority over recent statistical dominance. By naming Bartman the best in the country, Steyn has put immense pressure on his chosen pace attack to justify his inclusion when the tournament begins next month.
Also read: 8 South African players who played in T20 World Cup 2024 but will not play in the 2026 edition
Unmatched domestic dominance for the ousted fast bowler
The numbers certainly support Steyn’s outrage, as Bartman has officially become the leading wicket-taker in SA20 history during the 2025-26 season. playing for now Paarl RoyalsBartman has already taken 11 wickets in just four matches at a remarkable average of 12.27, the most in recent times marco janson To top the competition with 52 career wickets. His international record is equally impressive; Since his T20I debut in May 2024, the 32-year-old has taken 22 wickets in 17 matches at an average of 21.59. Despite being an important part of the team that got here world cup final 2024He has featured in only 11 of South Africa’s last 29 matches, a trend that has now been completely capped off by the 2026 global showpiece.
Also read: England reveal provisional squad for T20 World Cup 2026, no place for Jamie Smith