Abu Dhabi: South African seamer Morne Morkel may have had a forgettable World T20, but is keen to make amends with an inspired show for his new franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League, which starts on April 16 in the UAE.
Morkel proved expensive during South Africa’s crucial win over New Zealand in the World T20 and ended up on the bench for the remainder of the campaign.
“I felt good going into the World Cup. I bowled well against Australia and I had one bad game against New Zealand, which happens in T20 cricket. After that, I wasn’t selected so, in my mind, I’m quite mentally fresh and ready to play,” said the 29-year-old in an interview with Gulf News after sweating it out in the training session at the Oval 1 on Friday.
“Since I didn’t play in the rest of the tournament, I would say it was saving grace as I’m ready to play for KKR. It would be nice for me to prove a point for people back home. So, I’m excited about the challenge,” added Morkel, whose side will be playing the IPL opener against defending champions Mumbai Indians.
Unlike most other IPL players, the UAE wickets are not unknown terrains for the speedster. He has played here more than anyone in his side and that experience is going to do a world of good for KKR, he insists.
“It feels nice to be back here. I have good memories the last time I toured here with the Proteas and before as well. It is great to be in Abu Dhabi and Dubai again,” said Morkel, who played for Delhi Daredevils in last two seasons and was also a part of the Rajasthan Royals set-up before that.
“I think change has become a part of any profession. KKR bought me in the auction and for me and I just hope that I can deliver something special for them. I don’t think you need motivation for play for a new team. The day you don’t have motivation is the day you need to retire from this game,” said Morkel.
The wickets in the UAE are expected to be similar to those at the recently concluded World Twenty20 in Bangladesh, with pace bowlers really having to bend their backs to get assistance from the wicket. However, Morkel was of the view that the four-over spells provided would allow them to bowl at full throttle.
“I suspect it is going to be typical sub-continental wickets where they will be a touch on the slow side. Luckily, the sort of preparation during the T20 Worlds and all those little things has helped me get used to the conditions,” said Morkel, adding that he was happy with the KKR squad. “KKR are a fantastic side for me. We have got a very strong group and quality players and also a good leader in Gautam [Gambhir]. For me, we have some of the best cricketers around in international cricket. So, I’m very excited to go on to the field and put on the KKR jersey.”
The presence of old warhorse, Morkel’s compatriot Jacques Kallis, is a huge plus for the team, he added.
“Jacques’ impact is going to be massive. He is the best cricketer to have ever played the game and I still learn and train with him. He is the ultimate professional. I think for the younger players it is going to be great to learn about how he goes about his training,” said Morkel.
