Morne Morkel joins Brisbane Heat as local player for Big Bash League

The South African seamer now resides in Australia with his wife and two children and has been granted special status

• Morkel decides against Surrey move
• Gregory joins Heat

Brisbane Heat have signed Morne Morkel for the upcoming Big Bash League as a local player.

Morkel, who confirmed his decision not to rejoin Surrey this week, played one match for Perth Scorchers in the 2019-20 edition as an overseas signing.

The former South Africa seamer has lived in Australia, where he currently resides with his wife and two children, since international retirement in 2018.

While attaining citizenship usually takes five years, Morkel has been granted special dispensation.

Cricket Australia have permitted Heat to register him as a local player having been convinced he "will not seek or agree to represent any other ICC Full Member" having secured permanent residency.

Tom Banton, Lewis Gregory and Mujeeb ur Rahman have already been signed as the Heat's three overseas players, though there is uncertainty over the availability of the England pair.

Big Bash squads 2020-21: Full BBL 10 player lists

"I am still enjoying my cricket enormously and the chance to be part of the Heat squad is something I am keen to experience," said Morkel.

"I admit it will be a bit unusual to call myself a local, but we are enjoying living and working here and this is another aspect of our lives that I am looking forward to being a part of."

Coach Darren Lehmann added: "Anyone who has played or coached with him or against him will happily attest that he is a champion person. 

"On the international front, I consider his best bowling efforts came as he got older.  His control and skill with the ball were his trademarks so it will be great to introduce him into our group."

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