Top 5 South African fast bowlers of all time
South Africa, a nation known for its fast and bouncy pitches has a history of producing world-class fast bowlers. Every now and then, they have been blessed with a bowler or two in the side who have carried forward the tradition.
From Allan Donald of the past to Kagiso Rabada of the future, the rainbow nation has always had a healthy pace battery.
Here is a look at some of the legendary bowlers to have represented the country:
#5 Morne Morkel
Morne Morkel, the tall fast bowler is known for his back of the length, rising deliveries at the batsmen. His height and pace are a lethal combination which has worked well for him over the years. His partnership with Dale Steyn has been deadly for South Africa; Steyn traps with swing, Morkel gets batsmen with bounce beautifully.
He made his international debut in a Test match at Durban against India in 2006 and made a fine start with 3 wickets in the very first innings. Since then he has been a regular feature in the Proteas’ squad in all the 3 formats.
His most fruitful format though has been Test cricket where he has picked up 242 wickets in 71 matches making him the 6th highest wicket taker for the country.
The 31-year old has been an integral part of the Indian Premier League as well. He has represented Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Daredevils and is currently the frontline seamer for Kolkata Knight Riders.
Though his career has been marred heavily by injuries, he has got several years of pace bowling left in him, which could well make him a legendary fast bowler from South Africa.
Morne Morkel’s bowling career:
Format | Matches | Wickets | Best | Average | Economy | Strike Rate | 5W | 10W |
Test | 71 | 242 | 23/6 | 29.33 | 3.12 | 56.3 | 6 | 0 |
ODI | 108 | 181 | 21/5 | 24.60 | 4.95 | 29.7 | 2 | 0 |
T20I | 39 | 45 | 17/4 | 22.71 | 7.37 | 18.4 | 0 | 0 |
Total | 218 | 468 |
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