Morkel sets sights on historic South African double

Albie Morkel has set his sights on achieving a superb double for South Africa as they try to claim a Test and one-day series dual triumph over England.

The 27-year-old all-rounder and older brother of fast bowler Morne, has watched at home with interest as his sibling helped South Africa complete their first Test series win in England since 1965. It was an historic moment for South Africa and Albie now wants to complete a memorable double by helping his country claim another success in the one-day series, which comprises a Twenty20 international and five one-day internationals.

"We've been playing some good one-day cricket, we were No 1 in the world earlier this year and we're a proud nation," Morkel said. "For us to come over here and win a Test series and a one-day series in England would be a big achievement and we're all really keen to do that."

Morkel has experienced English conditions, playing 11 matches for Durham in the Twenty20 Cup earlier this summer finishing with an impressive strike rate of 154 from his 11 matches having hit 11 fours and 10 sixes.

He has also played in the Indian Premier League for the Chennai Super Kings, but admits he may take time to adjust to the demands of international cricket again.

"I've tried to keep myself fit during my time off and played a couple of games for Durham and then after that club cricket, but adapting to international cricket again is going to be my big challenge irrespective of the conditions," he admitted. "Getting used to the intensity that international players play at again is going to be my biggest step."