Steyn may be ruled out of the series

Perth - South Africa paceman Dale Steyn suffered a recurrence of a shoulder injury during Friday's play in the first Test against Australia and was sent to hospital amid fears he could be lost for the remainder of the series.

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The spearhead of South Africa's pace attack walked off the field in pain holding his right shoulder shortly before the lunch break.

This was soon after he dismissed Australia's opener David Warner to give the tourists a much-needed breakthrough following a 158-run opening stand.

A team spokesperson said the 33-year-old went to a nearby hospital for scans and treatment.

Last December, the injury-prone Steyn badly injured his shoulder while surfing and missed the majority of the home series against England. He has also been recuperating from a groin strain.

Steyn, the 85-Test veteran has taken 417 Test wickets, four short of overhauling Shaun Pollock (421 in 108) for the South African record.