Kohli feels for long-time friend Steyn after CWC exit

Southampton - When South Africa and India meet at the Rose Bowl on Wednesday, it will be India's first participation at the 2019 World Cup.

When one thinks of how much has happened to South Africa already in the short time they have been in England, it is difficult to understand how that is the case. 

India, fresh and well-stocked, are the obvious favourites. 

The Proteas have already lost to England and Bangladesh and have been ravaged by injuries, with the killer blow coming on Tuesday with the news that Dale Steyn was ruled out of the tournament completely.

The 35-year-old has not been able to recover from the shoulder injury he picked up during this year's IPL while on duty with the Royal Challengers Bangalore. 

He will be replaced by Beuran Hendricks in the Proteas squad, but the fact that he has not been able to feature in England has hurt the Proteas severely. 

Indian captain Virat Kohli, who was Steyn's team-mate at the IPL, feels for the man who considers to be his long-time friend.

"I'm really feeling bad for Dale because he looked really happy," Kohli told media on Tuesday.

"He was bowling really well and then suddenly, we find out that he's not going to be able to continue. 

"He's been a friend for a long time and he's a very motivated guy and he was very happy to come back and play for South Africa … he has that hunger and passion in him still.

"I can understand he must be feeling gutted, and I'm feeling bad for him."

Kohli was adamant, however, that South Africa would still be a difficult side to play against on Wednesday even without Steyn and the injured Lungi Ngidi, who is out with a hamstring strain.

"South Africa is still a very talented, very dangerous side on their day and even with the replacements, they will be a very strong side," Kohli said.

"We never take anyone lightly and whether a few key players get injured or not, if a youngster is stepping in and he has the right mindset, he can really perform on the day.

"I think we need to maintain respect for that."

Wednesday's match gets underway at 11:30 (SA time).