South Africa coach says Morne Morkel's place in the Champions Trophy is uncertain

South Africa might bench their most experienced bowler, Morne Morkel in the Champions Trophy, to include an allrounder. Morkel was included in the squad despite last playing an ODI in June 2016. He made his comeback on Monday and bowled four overs and went wicketless.

South African coach Russell Domingo is happy to have the quick back, but fears there is not enough room for him in the Champions Trophy. He said they would prefer 3 all-rounders which is why Morkel’s place in the team is uncertain.

“It’s a catch-22 situation because having Morne there might strengthen our bowling, it gives us more of a tail not having the three allrounders,” Domingo said. “It’s his first one-day international for a while and it’s good to have him back. He’s had a long-term injury layoff, and the bowlers that have played in his place have done really well.”

Morne’s average outing in the 3rd ODI against England

South Africa won the last game against England, in which the lanky pacer was included in the XI. But he cannot claim to be the reason for the win. It was the efforts of Wayne Parnell and Kagiso Rabada that reduced England to 20/6 in five overs. Hence they become the first choice for the upcoming tournament.

After Kyle Abbott’s international retirement, Parnell and Rabada have been very successful partners. Plus South Africa hopes the trio of Chris Morris, Dwaine Pretorius and Andile Phehlukwayo – can add late runs on pitches that are expected to produce big totals.

Positives from the ODI series

South Africa share the group with India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. They will not meet England, their most recent rivals, in the group stage of the Champions Trophy, but could come up against them in the knockouts.

“There were a lot of benefits and positives that we can take forward into the Champions Trophy so we’re pretty happy with the way things have panned out for us,” Domingo said.