/ 8 January 2012

Morkel to replace injured Elgar

All-rounder Albie Morkel was recalled on Sunday as a replacement for batsman Dean Elgar in South Africa’s squad for the five-match ODI series against Sri Lanka.

Elgar, who was expected to make his international debut in the series, picked up a knee injury while playing for the Knights in a SuperSport Series match against the Cape Cobras in Kimberley at the weekend.

Cricket South Africa said in a statement that Elgar may have injured his ligaments which could necessitate surgery.

Morkel himself recently recovered from injury, having undergone surgery after he was hurt during the Champions League T20 tournament in India earlier this year.

The 30-year-old, however, showed he was back to his best against the Warriors in Benoni at the weekend, making an unbeaten 127 in the Titans’ first innings and 55 not out in their second.

He also returned match figures of five for 85.

Morkel played the last of his 51 ODI’s against Pakistan in Dubai more than a year ago.

He was expected to link up with the Proteas squad on Monday ahead of the first ODI against Sri Lanka in Paarl on Wednesday. — Sapa