Yorkshire lose Morkel
Morne Morkel’s spell with Yorkshire has been cut short by injury.
The South Africa pace bowler was signed as short-term cover for Rana Naved-ul-Hasan, who is attempting to prove his fitness following a shoulder problem.
But Morkel sustained a hamstring injury in last week’s LV County Championship draw with Nottinghamshire, his first appearance for the club.
Scans have since revealed that Morkel suffered a grade two tear, which will keep him out of action for between three and six weeks.
As Rana is due to be available from early June at the latest, Morkel will play no further part in Yorkshire’s season. He hopes to return to England when South Africa tour later in the summer.
“I am really upset that an injury is forcing me home,” he said. “Everyone at Yorkshire has made me very welcome and I was desperate to take some wickets and get Yorkshire off to the best possible start.
“I wish the club every success this season and look forward to seeing everyone again when I am back here for the Tests and one-day internationals with South Africa.
“Hopefully my chance of playing county cricket for Yorkshire has not gone forever.”
Yorkshire director of cricket Martyn Moxon said: “We are all sad to see Morne depart so soon after his arrival.
“He was fitting in well and provided our bowling attack with some variety as he is a genuinely quick bowler. We wish him all the best in his recovery.
“We have a strong squad and as Rana Naved will be unable to be registered as a Yorkshire player before May 19 there is now a chance for one of our other seamers to grab an unexpected first team opportunity.”
Morkel will nevertheless travel with the Yorkshire squad for Sunday’s Friends Provident match against Lancashire on Sunday, before flying back to South Africa.
By Justin Goulding
Morne Morkel © Getty Images
