Before the start of the ICC Champions Trophy, there were uncertainties over the inclusion of Morne Morkel in the playing XI with coach Russell Domingo himself indicating that they can drop Morkel to add an all-rounder to the side.
But still, skipper AB de Villiers went for the experience of Morkel and included him in the playing XI for their first game against Sri Lanka.
The 32-year old pacer took one wicket in the contest dominated by spinner Imran Tahir, who grabbed four wickets to earn Man of the Match award for his brilliant show. AB de Villiers did not tinker with the playing XI against Pakistan, which meant that Morkel was given another chance.
This time, there was a bit of pressure on him because his place was still not sure. The tall pacer responded well to the responsibility put on him, as playing just third ODI after his return, Morkel affected three wickets in the rain-marred game, which eventually South Africa lost on D/L method. There were many positives for Morkel though, who was the only wicket-taker for his side,
“I think because in the last eight months there were a lot of uncertainties with me, and to come out tonight in a big competition and do something with the ball, it is something special. When I walked onto the field, it was on the back of my mind. It was really an opportunity for me to stand up. Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be [the result]. But we have to write the night off and look to the next one,” said Morkel after the game.
“The best thing for me was to block all those (thoughts) out and focus on when I get the opportunity to grab it with both hands. The team has done exceptionally well in the past couple of months, becoming No. 1 team with all-rounders. So I understood that as a player, to be able to just wait for my turn and make the most of it. Luckily things are going well now at the moment. So, (I’m) happy,” he added.
Morkel was happy with his performance but the smile could have been much bigger had South Africa would have won the game. It was a tough wicket to bat on and of course, rain too played its part which saw South Africa finishing on the receiving end.
With this loss against Pakistan, South Africa have suffered a blow due to the fact that a win here would have assured them a place in the semi-final but now, only a win against India can see this team going in the next round and keep their hopes alive of winning the trophy.
India and South Africa will take on each other on May 11 at the Kennington Oval in London.