SYDNEY, Nov 6, 2020 (BSS/AFP) – South African fast bowling great Morne
Morkel Friday signed on for the Big Bash League, but as a local hire rather
than international after becoming an Australian permanent resident.
The 36-year-old, who played 86 Tests and 117 ODIs for the Proteas, moved
to Australia in 2018, where he lives with his sports broadcaster wife and
children.
He gained residency this year and put pen to paper with the Brisbane Heat
for the Twenty20 tournament starting on December 10.
“I am still enjoying my cricket enormously and the chance to be part of
the Heat squad is something I am keen to experience,” he said.
“I admit it will be a bit unusual to call myself a local, but we are
enjoying living and working here and this is another aspect of our lives that
I am looking forward to being a part of.”
BBL rules allow three internationals in the same XI with Afghan spinner
Mujeeb Ur Rahman and English pair Tom Banton and Lewis Gregory already signed
for the Heat.
Vastly experienced, Morkel’s T20 record includes 77 wickets in 70 matches
in the Indian Premier League with Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and
Delhi Daredevils.
Heat coach Darren Lehmann said he was eager to see Morkel in action.
“I consider his best bowling efforts came as he got older,” he said. “His
control and skill with the ball were his trademarks so it will be great to
introduce him into our group.”
Morkel retired from international cricket in 2018.