India vs SA: Steyn likely to skip Day Three

The fast bowler went off the field owing to a groin strain and did not take the field.

Dale Steyn did not bowl in the second innings.

South Africa spearhead Dale Steyn is unlikely to take field on Day Three of the ongoing Test in Mohali against India owing to a groin strain. He had sustained the discomfort while fielding on Day One, and although he came out to bat at his customary No. 9 position today, he did not bowl in the 40 overs India batted in the latter half of Day Two.

South Africa’s spin coach Claude Henderson affirmed the injury, a groin strain, was likely to keep him out of the Test for the foreseeable future. “I think he is struggling. I think he has got a groin strain and I can’t see him bowling tomorrow," he was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo .

Dale Steyn is off the field due to a tight right groin. He is unlikely to take the field today as a precaution. >#IndvSA

— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) >November 6, 2015

India reached a position of authority after gaining a lead of 17 runs, as their top order, led by Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara, unbeaten on 63, took them to 125 for 2 at stumps. South Africa's spinners Simon Harmer, Dean Elgar and Imran Tahir bowled 25 overs, and Steyn's pace partners Kagiso Rabada and Vernon Philander pitched in with eight and seven overs respectively.

South Africa, facing the prospect of a long day at the field tomorrow, will have wanted his presence among the troops to help minimise India's lead. "We need wickets early to try to create some pressure. Anything above 200 will be challenging," Hendersen said.