The point is that Steyn never had hype, hence the remark that he is mostly PakPassion propaganda. He is in decline now but it was true even in his peak. The casual follower of cricket is probably not even aware of his existence, and I am speaking from personal experience. They know Donald and Pollock when you ask them about SA bowlers but not Steyn. Perhaps that is because the general public doesn't care about Tests and Steyn has been rubbish in ODIs and T20s, with hardly any notable performances on the big stage that have left a lasting impression.
Someone like Starc, who is not an ATG yet, is enjoying far greater hype and popularity and obviously helping Australia win the World Cup played a big role. Ask any casual follower who the best fast bowler in the world is and most will say Starc.
Similarly, bowlers like Wasim, McGrath, Ambrose, Lillee, the West Indian quartet etc. enjoy that recognition and hype. Starc is the only contemporary fast bowler (along with Amir for somewhat different reasons) who enjoys that hype. Anderson is actually more popular than Steyn among the casual followers but obviously not at the same level as the said bowlers and Starc.
Due to multiple reasons, Steyn's greatness and impact is limited to the cricket connoisseurs only, and you mostly find them on forums like PakPassion etc. However, a true ATG has widespread appeal.
