Perth Scorchers Sign Up Morne Morkel As A Replacement For Chris Jordan

At the business end of the Big Bash League season nine, three-time champions Perth Scorchers have pulled off a marquee signing in Morne Morkel. The towering South African quick will join the camp next week to replace English paceman Chris Jordan, who will travel to South Africa for the limited-overs series to play for England. The franchise is presently playing against Melbourne Stars.

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Morkel announced his retirement from international cricket in March 2018 and since then has been playing for Surrey, signing a Kolpak deal with them in April that year. The retired paceman was also amongst the highest wicket-takers in the latest edition of the Mzansi Super League, having taken 12 scalps in nine matches at an economy rate of 6.35 for Tshwane Spartans.

Perth Scorchers’ coach Adam Voges conceded that they realised they would need a replacement when Jordan was picked for the limited-overs series against South Africa. Voges said that Morkel, who was on the top of their list, not only brings in a wealth of experience, but also he has a good rapport with him, having played against each other over the years.

“Once we knew CJ [Chris Jordan] had been picked in the England side, we knew that we would need a replacement for the back end of the tournament and Morne was always at the top of the list. He brings a wealth of experience and has performed really well particularly in the Mzansi Super League in South Africa where he was one of the leading wicket-takers. He was really keen to come on board. Luckily I’ve played a bit with Morne over the years so we’ve got a good relationship and he was super excited to get involved in the Big Bash.” Voges said as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.

Voges expects Morne Morkel to contribute to Scorchers in providing leadership insights:

Adam Voges further acknowledged Jordan’s importance to the team by saying that not only he offered a lot with the ball, but also helped the captain Mitchell Marsh in leading the troops. The coach assumes that the Proteas’ quick bowler can bring in all his experience and do the same for the side.

“I think CJ has been fantastic for us, not only what he’s brought with the ball but just the way that he’s been around the group. His experience has helped the guys out on the field and he’s helping Mitch with his leadership as well. We wanted someone of a similar calibre to come in and I think Morne will do a great job with that and continue the good work that CJ has done.” he added further.

The 35-year old would be available for selection for the final regular-season match against Sydney Thunder on the 26th of January. The Mitchell Marsh-led outfit are currently placed fourth in the points table.

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