Happy Birthday, Albie Morkel: South African all-rounder turns 35

Born June 10, 1981, South African all-rounder Albie Morkel turns 35 today.

Born June 10, 1981, South African all-rounder Albie Morkel turns 35 today. Known for his clean-hitting and big strikes, often clearing the stadium, he is the elder brother of Morne Morkel. Once linked to one of South Africa’s greatest all-rounder Lance Klusener, Morkel though couldn’t shine much in the international arena as much as he did in the domestic matches. His batting potential lower down the order made him a star attraction in the opening edition of the IPL. He is a right-arm medium-fast bowler and though he has played in just 1 Test match in his career, he continues to play in T20 Internationals. ALSO READ: Albie Morkel: Perfect example of a modern day all-rounder

Morkel made his One-Day International debut against New Zealand at Wellington in February 2004. He has played in 58 matches and has scored 782 runs in the 50-over format at an average of 23.69. He has taken 50 wickets in those matches as a bowler. In T20Is for South Africa he has played in 50 matches and has 572 runs and 26 wickets to his name. But Morkel has played a big number of Twenty20 match for clubs and franchises in his career. In 287 matches he has scored 3767 runs at an average of 25.80. He has 230 wickets in those matches.

Morkel was a part of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise for a long time. He even hit Virat Kohli for 28 runs in IPL 2012 to win the match for his side. The left-handed batsman has also played for Delhi Daredevils in the IPL. He joined the Rising Pune Supergiants franchise in IPL 2016 but played in just 2 matches in the season, picking 2 wickets.