Codi Yusuf: South Africa’s “Dale Steyn 2.0” and the Future of Proteas Fast Bowling
South African cricket has always been synonymous with fast bowling legends. From Allan Donald to Shaun Pollock, Makhaya Ntini, and Dale Steyn, the Proteas have consistently produced world-class pacers who terrorized batters across the globe. Now, a new name has entered the conversation — Codi Yusuf, a 27-year-old right-arm fast-medium bowler who is being hailed as “Dale Steyn 2.0.”
Codi Yusuf Early Life and Domestic Rise
Born on April 10, 1998, in Knysna, Western Cape, Yusuf showed a natural flair for pace bowling from his teenage years. His sharp outswingers, skiddy pace, and ability to extract bounce made him stand out in youth circuits. He quickly moved through the ranks and became a regular feature in South Africa’s provincial cricket.
His breakthrough came during the 2019–20 CSA Provincial One-Day Challenge, where he emerged as one of Gauteng’s top wicket-takers. With 16 wickets in just nine matches, he was immediately recognized as a bowler with the ability to deliver consistent breakthroughs. Over the next few years, Yusuf developed into a reliable performer across formats, earning call-ups for franchise cricket and eventually a county stint in England with Durham.
The Dale Steyn Comparison
What makes Codi Yusuf unique is not just his statistics but his style of bowling. Former South African great Dale Steyn has personally endorsed him, describing Yusuf as quick, skiddy, and relentless with his length. Steyn recalled how Yusuf once ripped through the England Lions batting lineup, proving that he had the skill and temperament for the highest level.
Steyn’s praise carried weight. For a man often considered one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time to label Yusuf as “Steyn 2.0” was more than a compliment — it was a passing of the torch. Fans and pundits alike began to watch Yusuf with renewed interest, expecting him to carry forward the tradition of South African fast bowling excellence.
International Breakthrough
Yusuf finally got his opportunity at the highest level in 2025, when he debuted in Test cricket. In his first two matches, he stunned spectators with his ability to move the ball both ways and bowl long, aggressive spells. He picked up 10 wickets in just two Tests at an astonishing average of 12.20, with best figures of 3 for 22.
His Test performances showed that he wasn’t just another domestic star but someone capable of thriving in the high-pressure international arena. His consistency, accuracy, and the ability to bowl in partnerships made him an instant asset to the South African squad.
ODI Debut Against England
On September 7, 2025, Yusuf made his One-Day International debut against England in Southampton. While he went wicketless in his four overs, conceding 26 runs, his tight line and length earned praise from commentators. For a debutant bowler to maintain composure against a batting-heavy English side was an encouraging sign. His economy rate showed that he could adapt his style for the shorter formats, an important skill in modern cricket.
Domestic and All-Round Ability
Beyond his bowling, Yusuf has shown glimpses of being a useful lower-order batter. In first-class cricket, he has scored over 600 runs, with a highest score of 84. His ability to hang around with recognized batters or add crucial runs down the order makes him a genuine all-round option.
His first-class bowling record is even more impressive: over 100 wickets from just over 30 games, including four five-wicket hauls. His economy rate, hovering around 3.4, reflects his control and discipline.
Why He Matters for South Africa
South African cricket has been in search of a consistent fast bowler who could take over the mantle after the retirements of Morne Morkel, Vernon Philander, and Dale Steyn. While Kagiso Rabada continues to be the spearhead, the Proteas need a partner who can share the load and maintain pressure from both ends.
Codi Yusuf offers exactly that. His skiddy pace, ability to extract movement, and relentless accuracy make him the perfect foil to Rabada. Together, they have the potential to form one of the most lethal new-ball partnerships in world cricket.
The Road Ahead
At just 27, Yusuf is entering what many consider the prime years for a fast bowler. With careful workload management and exposure to all formats, he has the potential to become South Africa’s next great. His recent county stint in England has added variety to his game, teaching him how to bowl on flatter surfaces and adapt to different conditions.
Fans and experts alike are eager to see how he develops in limited-overs cricket, particularly T20 leagues, where his skiddy pace and sharp bouncers could make him a nightmare for batters. If he continues to grow at this pace, Yusuf could soon become one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket.
Conclusion
Codi Yusuf’s story is one of grit, perseverance, and undeniable talent. From dominating domestic circuits to earning the praise of Dale Steyn and now making his mark internationally, he represents the new wave of South African cricket. The comparisons to Steyn are lofty, but Yusuf’s early performances suggest he has the skill and temperament to live up to them.
As South Africa looks ahead to future ICC tournaments, Yusuf could well be the X-factor bowler the team has been missing. Fast, fiery, and focused, Codi Yusuf is not just another promising pacer — he is the Proteas’ next great hope.