South African speedster Dale Steyn yesterday slammed the International Cricket Council's (ICC) two new-ball rule, saying it literally takes the bowlers completely out of equation. He also felt that the ICC must adopt the rule followed by English counties when it comes to the toss — it should take place only if the visiting team does not opt to bowl first.

"Pitches in ODIs are too flat. You're taking the bowlers completely out of equation. The two new-ball rule is just ridiculous in my opinion. The ball's only 25 overs old, not 50. You're also taking the skill out of the game. I grew up watching Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis reverse swing the ball and you try naming even one player in the world today who can reverse swing the ball now. Players are now going to the extent of taking sandpaper on the field," said Steyn, a veteran of 116 ODIs.