How Steyn controls aggression

Cape Town - Dale Steyn has explained how he keeps his emotions intact when at the forefront of the Proteas' bowling attack.

An emotional Steyn took 4-55 in Australia's second innings in Port Elizabeth last Sunday to help the Proteas win by 231 runs and level the three-Test series at 1-1.

His captain, Graeme Smith, earlier this week said Steyn's "anger goes from very angry to extremely angry" when bowling.

But Steyn, in an interview with Die Burger's website, said he's not really angry out on the field.

"It's more focussed aggression. I have to work myself up like that to be able to produce bowling spells like the one in Port Elizabeth.

"It's more a case of getting myself in the right mood where it feels like I'm in a battle.

"If I think of teddy bears while running in, then I'll dish up full tosses and hamburgers and never get anyone out. It must feel like I'm involved in a fight.

"I don't have to go and scream at the batsman but must get my body ready for a fight."

Steyn also admitted to feeling slightly embarrassed when seeing his overzealous celebrations on TV afterwards, but said: "That's how I'm at my best and if I perform for my country, then all is well."

The final Test starts at Newlands from Saturday.