Former Proteas fast bowler Morne Morkel has effectively expressed interest in playing in Australia’s Big Bash League as a local player.

Morkel retired from international cricket last year – and is married to Australian journalist Roz Kelly. Morkel is currently in Australia on a tourist visa – and will likely pursue citizenship.

‘Australia is going to be home for me from now on, so hopefully we can sort out passports and visas and those sort of things,’ he told cricket.com.au.

‘I understand there’s a process and I respect that. I’m open to any possibilities and opportunities that come my way because I’m going to base myself in Australia for the next couple of years or however long it may be.

‘Australia’s going to be my home so I’m definitely trying to get my foot in the door. But there’s been no formal sit-down discussions about signing or playing any state cricket. It’s just been about meeting the guys and getting a feel for Australia.’

The lanky right-armer has played in the Indian Premier League and Caribbean Premier League, but not the Big Bash League.

‘I’m still available for all formats, so if there’s an opportunity here, that’d be great,’ he added.

‘I still feel mentally and physically that I’m capable of playing and bowling a lot of overs. I love the game, so I think it’s important to give back – and if I can add value by playing red-ball cricket and spend time with youngsters, that’s the stuff that really excites me.’

Former all-rounder Johan Botha played five Tests, 78 ODIs and 40 T20Is for the Proteas before becoming a naturalised Australian. Botha retired from all forms of competitive cricket earlier this year.

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