Morne Morkel joins Perth Scorchers for Big Bash run in

The Perth Scorchers have signed former South Africa quick Morne Morkel for the closing stages of the Big Bash.

Morkel, who retired from international cricket after the series against Australia in early 2018 and now lives in Sydney, will link up with the Scorchers next week as a replacement for Chris Jordan and be available for selection for the final regular season match against the Sydney Thunder on January 26.

He would then be available for the finals if the Scorchers, who are currently fourth in the table, make it to the new-look series which includes five of the eight teams.

Jordan is leaving the tournament because he is part of the England one-day squad for the series in South Africa.

"Once we knew CJ [Chris Jordan] had been picked in the England side we knew that we would need a replacement for the back end of the tournament and Morne was always at the top of the list," the Scorchers coach Adam Voges said. "He brings a wealth of experience and has performed really well particularly in the Mzansi Super League in South Africa where he was one of the leading wicket takers.

"He was really keen to come on board. Luckily I've played a bit with Morne over the years so we've got a good relationship and he was super excited to get involved in the Big Bash.

"I think CJ has been fantastic for us, not only what he's brought with the ball but just the way that he's been around the group. His experience has helped the guys out on the field and he's helping Mitch with his leadership as well. We wanted someone of a similar calibre to come in and I think Morne will do a great job with that and continue the good work that CJ has done.

"We're going to get Morne to Perth next week and he'll be around the group for a week or so before he plays so that will be great for him to get to know everyone and hopefully make that transition a bit smoother."

Morkel took 12 wickets in nine matches at an economy rate of 6.35 in the MSL for Tshwane Spartans. After moving to Sydney with his wife, sports journalist and presenter Roz Kelly, Morkel had spoken about hoping to gain permanent residency which could see him eligible for future BBL seasons as a local player.