Proteas team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee has confirmed that Dale Steyn’s shoulder operation has been a success. 

The Proteas speedster sustained a shoulder blade fracture in the first Test match against Australia at the WACA ground in Perth last week, which ruled him out of action for a minimum of six months.

The surgery was performed in Cape Town by a renowned shoulder specialist and is the first positive step towards recovery for the 33-year-old.

Dr Moosajee said:

‘Dale had successful surgery on Thursday where the fracture in the right shoulder blade was fixated with the placement of a screw. We expect a minimum six-month rehabilitation period before he can start any form of bowling. It is crucial to give the injury enough time to heal and to make sure that he is completely pain-free before he starts bowling again. He will begin with his rehabilitation programme once the satisfactory bony healing has taken place; this is excepted to be in a few weeks.

‘We are positive that he will make a successful return to international cricket. He will be provided with the best possible support and guidance led by our physiotherapist, Brandon Jackson, and Cricket South Africa’s medical committee, which will give him the best opportunity to make a successful return to full fitness.’