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Morne thanks Steyn, backs him for record

Cape Town - Not all fans at Newlands on Friday were looking to launch abuse Australia's way. 

Most of them, in fact, were more interested in Morne Morkel's quest to become just the fifth South Africa to take 300 wickets in Test cricket. 

Returning to the side after being dropped for the second Test in Port Elizabeth, Morkel took just 7.3 overs to get the three wickets he needed to get to the milestone

When he had Shaun Marsh caught behind for 26, Morkel had made history in a moment that brought the Newlands crowd collectively to its feet. 

There were over 10 000 spectators at the stadium on day two, and one of those was Morkel's long-time friend and team-mate Dale Steyn. 

Currently out injured, Steyn was at Newlands on day one too when he donned a Proteas shirt with Morkel's name in a clear show of support for his Titans partner. 

Steyn, himself, is chasing a milestone.

Currently on 419 Test wickets, Steyn needs just two more to equal Shaun Pollock's record as the leading wicket taker in South African Test cricket history. 

Morkel acknowledged after the day's play that having Steyn at the ground made the moment even more memorable.

"That's very special. I've come a long way with Steyntjie. We started our careers back at the Titans and we support each other massively," Morkel said.

"To see him yesterday with that shirt on was very special."

The Proteas next play Test cricket in August when they travel on Sri Lanka, and Morkel is backing Steyn to be fit and ready for that three-match series.

"I just hope that he can get recovered now and get back on the field and reach that special milestone that's waiting for him as well," Morkel said.

"I'm pretty sure he's going to be back soon.

"To see a team-mate that's been beside me for so long supporting me was amazing."

Couldn’t be more happy for this man! Great achievement bud, I just wish I was on the field to celebrate it with you. #300 clubStill a big few days to go, but tonight it’s all about this man ?????? @mornemorkel65 pic.twitter.com/JYSh0YcaUa

— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) March 23, 2018

I don’t often watch cricket as a spectator, but today has been a treat! Well batted @deanelgar great ton. Ab to get his before close of play...? Bet your last dollar on it! pic.twitter.com/BFAEqrKX7d

— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) March 22, 2018

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