'He's still playing well at the age of 37' - Morne Morkel bats for Faf du Plessis' inclusion in T20 WC 2022 squad

Former South African pacer Morne Morkel has urged Cricket South Africa selectors to consider veteran batter Faf du Plessis for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia. Du Plessis has not featured for the T20I side since 2020.

The former skipper  currently is not a part of the plans for South African cricket as he does not have a central contract. The 37-year-old captained Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2022 and guided them to the playoffs, scoring 468 runs at a strike rate of 127.52. His prolific output with the bat has evoked Morkel to call for his selection for the World Cup.

Notably, former Proteas captain Graeme Smith had also batted for du Plessis’ consideration for the upcoming ICC mega event. The veteran batter could be an invaluable addition to the squad with his expertise and experience in the format.

“You want all your big-name players to play and Faf is still playing well at the age of 37. He is still playing well, moving well in the field and he has done exceptionally well for RCB (in the IPL). I would like to see those experienced players in the side. That is up to them (CSA) to work out, but I am definitely a big fan of it,” Morkel said at an event in Melbourne.

South Africa have a well-balanced squad in T20Is: Morne Morkel

The former right-arm quick, who scalped over 500 wickets across all formats for South Africa, suggested that the current fast bowling attack consisting of Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje will enjoy bowling in the Australian conditions. He said that the Proteas have a balanced squad but it is too close to call in this format of the game.

“I honestly believe they have an attack that is going to suit these conditions well. Kagiso Rabada is a world-class performer, Anrich Nortje did very well at the IPL, and (Tabraiz)  Shamsi is a quality spinner. I do believe that it is a well-balanced squad, and in T20 cricket these days, the teams are so close,” the former pacer added.