Cape Town – Former South African Test fast bowler Morne Morkel emerged loud and proud after playing a key role in Surrey’s tight-six run victory over Lancashire in the County Championship Division One this week.

Morkel, who ended a lengthy international career earlier this year, has since become a star peformer for in English county cricket.

Wednesday’s telling haul of 6/57 epitomised his talent and form – and spearheaded the hosts to triumph in London.

“That’s one of the best games of cricket I’ve ever been involved in. It was nail-biting right to the end and we rolled the dice at the interval by opting to take the second new ball,” he said.

“We knew it would be easier to score off, but it was a gamble worth taking and it paid off. It was also great to be able to contribute with the bat in both our innings.”

He has played a key role in Surrey’s Vitality Blast campaign, too, building on several years of experienced gained in the Indian Premier League with the Delhi Daredevils, Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals. The lanky right-armer has also represented the St Lucia Zouks in the Caribbean Premier League.