Albie comes full circle

It’s rather fitting that Albie Morkel’s first game since becoming the fourth player ever to play in 300 T20s is at Willowmoore Park in Benoni tomorrow evening.

For it was on the sprawling East Rand where it all began for the veteran Titans skipper (above).

“I’ve been blessed with a successful domestic career,” the all-rounder said yesterday ahead of the domestic T20 challenge meeting with the Dolphins.

“I’ve enjoyed most days. There have been ups and downs as it always is. It definitely helped playing IPL for a long time. It got me to that number. I’m very grateful.”

“It’s always nice playing in the local T20 tournament,” he added

“On my way home from last weekend’s game, I realised how special it still is to play here. People are still coming out to watch us play. We’re contributing to a good product.”

However, as much as Morkel enjoys a mentoring role, his formative years in Benoni have made him realise that the current crop of rookies might have it a bit too easy.

“I have fond memories of Willowmoore Park under Ray Jennings. It was a tough place to play cricket,” he said.

“Things were done differently there. I don’t want to sound like a grumpy old man but things are gifted on a platter for some youngsters. I’m not saying treat them like troops, just give them a harder environment to handle pressure better.”