India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel shed light on the decision to rest Arshdeep Singh, one of India’s most consistent T20I performers, for the first
Morne Morkel
Morne Morkel – South Africa’s Towering Fast Bowling Spearhead
Morne Morkel was one of the most feared fast bowlers of his generation. Towering at 6 feet 5 inches, with a high-arm action and steep bounce, Morkel formed a lethal pace trio alongside Dale Steyn and Vernon Philander for South Africa during the 2000s and 2010s. Known for his hostile spells, relentless aggression, and unwavering work ethic, Morkel remains a key figure in South Africa’s fast bowling legacy.
This tag page on The Cricket Scores covers everything about Morne Morkel—from his international cricket achievements and IPL exploits to post-retirement coaching roles and recent updates.
Early Life and Rise to International Cricket
Born on October 6, 1984, in Vereeniging, South Africa, Morne Morkel was introduced to cricket by his older brother Albie Morkel, who also played for South Africa. While Albie was an all-rounder, Morne quickly carved a niche as a specialist fast bowler known for his raw pace and bounce.
His domestic performances for Titans earned him a national call-up in 2006, and he made his Test debut shortly after in 2006 against India.
International Career Overview
Test Cricket
- Debut: December 2006 vs India
- Matches: 86
- Wickets: 309
- Best Bowling: 6/23
- Known for generating bounce even on flat tracks
- Played a key role in South Africa’s overseas success, particularly in Australia and England
- Retired from international cricket in March 2018
One Day Internationals (ODIs)
- Debut: June 2007 vs Asia XI
- Matches: 117
- Wickets: 188
- Best Bowling: 5/21
- Played in multiple ICC tournaments including the 2011 and 2015 Cricket World Cups
T20 Internationals
- Debut: 2007
- Matches: 44
- Wickets: 47
- Economy Rate: 7.49
- Reliable in powerplays and death overs
Career Stats Snapshot
| Format | Matches | Wickets | Best Bowling | Average | Economy |
| Tests | 86 | 309 | 6/23 | 27.66 | 3.06 |
| ODIs | 117 | 188 | 5/21 | 25.32 | 4.95 |
| T20Is | 44 | 47 | 4/17 | 25.72 | 7.49 |
IPL & T20 Leagues
Morne Morkel also made his mark in T20 franchise cricket, especially in the Indian Premier League (IPL):
| League | Team(s) | Notable Role |
| IPL | Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Daredevils, Kolkata Knight Riders | Purple Cap winner in 2012 (Delhi) |
| PSL | Multan Sultans | Key overseas pacer |
| BBL | Brisbane Heat (after retirement) | Part of overseas player contingent |
In IPL 2012, Morkel won the Purple Cap with 25 wickets, leading Delhi Daredevils to the playoffs.
Post-Retirement: Coaching and Commentary
After hanging up his boots in 2018, Morne Morkel transitioned into coaching and cricket commentary.
- Appointed as bowling coach for Namibia during the 2021 T20 World Cup
- Served as bowling coach of Pakistan’s national team in 2023
- Involved in IPL coaching staff and mentoring young fast bowlers
- Regular expert on TV panels during ICC tournaments and bilateral series
Morne Morkel in the News
This tag page provides real-time updates on:
- Morne Morkel’s coaching assignments
- Expert commentary and match predictions
- Interviews and insights on modern fast bowling
- Appearances in international T20 leagues and exhibition matches
Legacy and Impact
Morne Morkel’s numbers are impressive, but his true value lay in his attitude—unflinching, aggressive, and always team-first. Whether bowling marathon spells in Tests or holding his nerve at the death in ODIs, Morkel was the workhorse South Africa could always rely on.
His partnership with Dale Steyn was one of the most feared in modern Test cricket, and his contribution to South Africa’s rise as a dominant Test side in the 2000s is undeniable.
Even today, aspiring pacers look up to Morkel’s high-arm action, controlled aggression, and never-say-die mindset.