Morne Morkel joins Perch Scorchers for final leg of BBL, replaces Chris Jordan

Perth Scorchers on Saturday confirmed signing of former South Africa speedster Morne Morkel for ongoing edition of Big Bash League (BBL). pacer has replaced Chris Jordon in squad as England pacer has been included in one-day and T20 squads for ongoing South Africa tour.

Morkel will be joining Perth's squad next week and will be available for selection for side's last home and away fixture against Sydney Thunder in Sydney on January 26.

'I've got some big boots to fill'

"Excited to join a franchise which has a blueprint for winning trophies..I’ve got some big boots to fill especially at business end of tournament, but can't wait and look forward to opportunity!!" tweeted Morkel anuncing his signing. 

'Morne was always at top of list'

"Once we knew CJ (Chris Jordan) had been picked in England side we knew that we would need a replacement for back end of tournament and Morne was always at top of list," Scorchers coach Adam Voges said in an official statement.

"He brings a wealth of experience and has performed really well particularly in Mzansi Super League in South Africa where he was one of leading wicket-takers," he added.

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pacer has represented Proteas in 86 Tests, 117 ODIs and 44 T20Is, managing to take 544 international wickets across all formats. "He was really keen to come on board. Luckily I've played a bit with Morne over years so we've got a good relationship and he was super excited to get involved in Big Bash," Voges said.

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Morkel played longest format of game for 12 years for Proteas and in process, became fifth bowler to take 300 Test wickets for team. Scorchers are currently placed at fourth spot in BBL standings with 10 points and will next take on Melbourne Starts on Saturday, January 18.

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