Acting director of cricket Corrie van Zyl has explained all-rounder Chris Morris’ absence from the Proteas squad for September’s T20I series against India.

Morris was South Africa’s leading wicket-taker at the recent World Cup in the United Kingdom. He wasn’t part of the original squad, but was added as a replacement for the injured Anrich Nortje.

The right-arm seamer and hard-hitting lower-order batsman, though, was not included in the squad announced this week. The Proteas, however, selected fast bowler Nortje, batsman Temba Bavuma and spinner Bjorn Fortuin – all uncapped at T20I level.

‘It is well known that Chris’ national contract was not renewed beyond the World Cup,’ Van Zyl told Sport24.

“Then, following his super performance at the World Cup, negotiations began on awarding him a new national contract but by then he had already made other commitments.

‘It absolutely does not mean that the door is closed, and we will start negotiations on a new contract again after the tour. He still wants to play cricket for South Africa.’

Morris is currently playing for Hampshire in the T20 Blast. Former Proteas players Kyle Abbott and Rilee Rossouw are among his teammates.

The Proteas and India will contest three T20Is in Dharamsala, Mohali and Bengaluru from 15-22 September. Three Tests will follow.

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