New Zealand vs South Africa 2017: 1st Test, 5 talking points

#3 Morne Morkel impresses on return

Morkel showed little signs of rust or injury in the Test

Dale Steyn, Vernon Philander and Morne Morkel formed a hugely threatening triumvirate of South African fast bowlers a few years back. The last year saw a wave of change as injuries put Steyn and Morkel out if reckoning.

Steyn is still out, but Morkel made a much-awaited return after a one-year break from the game due to a back injury. The pacer hadn't played much cricket domestically before his recall and questions were raised about his selection over Duanne Olivier, who had impressed on his debut.

But as the saying goes, 'class is permanent' and Morkel was at his beastly best in Dunedin. He generated disconcerting bounce and bowled the right channels to trouble the Kiwi batsmen. Although none of it has appeared in the wickets column, South Africa will be aware that they have their champion bowler back.