Looking back at his global career, Morkel’s said the win that stands out most for him was being a part of the side that famously beat Australia in Australia in 2008-09, in a Test series for the first time since re-admission. That hasn’t happened in a four-test series since Bill Lawry’s team lost 4-0 in 1970 to South Africa.
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“I haven’t given it much thought until you just asked me”.
Vernon Philander inflicted the damage on the morning of the fifth day, taking six wickets in a devastating spell as Australia collapsed miserably from 88 for three overnight to 119 all out.
Talking about his return following the side strain, Morkel said, “It was very important to be on the field; I wanted to be on the field. We’re going to celebrate his career, today is all about him”. I am so grateful for all the opportunities I was given and to go out on a high.
The visitors started day one at the bottom of the barrel, and they were outplayed over all five days. “I love being involved in the game, I’m passionate about the game so I’m happy to be involved. It was nice to see him solider on, that’s what leaders do and I never expected him to do anything else”. “The way he came out and landed the ball was sensational”.
“It’s been a battle between two guys who are highly competitive”.
Also at Newlands‚ Australia’s plot to tamper with the ball by roughening it with sandpaper was exposed and Steve Smith‚ Warner and Cameron Bancroft were banned by Cricket Australia and sent home in disgrace.
“It has been a really challenging week”, he said in the post-series presentation.
The ball-tampering scandal has changed plenty of lives and generated vast debate about the team’s conduct, which new captain Paine has already changed.
The quick result brings to a head the controversial Australia’s tour of South Africa which was marred by on-field spats and a ball-tampering scandal that could potentially derail the foundation of Australian cricket.
Morkel’s long goodbye started in front of friends and family in Cape Town, where he went past 300 Test wickets, won man of the match, and the plaudits that have often escaped his clutches. Australia 1st innings: 221 (T. Paine 62, U. Khawaja 53; V. Philander 3/30, K. Rabada 3/53, K. Maharaj 3/92). “When you are slightly off in Test cricket against a world-class opposition, you’re going to be found wanting”.
The outcome was mixed, with South Africa admitting surprise at the “docile” nature of the Australian team who succumbed to such an embarrassing defeat.
“I’m really going to miss the banter in the change room” – Morne Morkel.
“It’s odd. I’ve played quite a few Tests against Australia and it’s definitely been the most docile Test since I played Test cricket”.
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But that burst was as good as it got for Australia, the match-long litany of bad luck continuing as Temba Bavuma and Vernon Philander batted through to tea in flighty fashion for 35 and 33 respectively.
