AB de Villiers expects Dale Steyn to return to fitness "very soon"

South Africa captain AB de Villiers has calmed fears that fast bowler Dale Steyn is expected to be sidelined for a lengthy period of time.

The 29-year-old has been left out of the squad for today's ICC Champions Trophy opener against India in Cardiff due to a side strain.

"He should be fit very soon," said De Villiers. "We don't want to risk him for the whole tournament. We might need him in the next couple of matches."

The Proteas won the toss and opted to put India into bat.