Batsman Rilee Rossouw is confident South Africa’s disappointing 2019 World Cup campaign won’t negatively affect all-rounder Chris Morris’ stint with Hampshire in the T20 Blast later this year.

Morris was a late addition to the Proteas squad as a replacement for the injured Anrich Nortje, taking 13 wickets in eight matches at the World Cup.

The right-arm seamer was South Africa’s leading wicket-taker at the tournament, but was unable to prevent a seventh-place finish – and lack of qualification for the semi-finals.

‘The better players put things behind them more easily and forget about failures and focus [on] what is next. He is a very good professional and he will definitely put the World Cup behind him before he plays here,’ said Rossouw, who will be Morris’ teammate at Hampshire.

‘Morris is coming into the tournament in good form after the World Cup. I thought he bowled really well. I am really looking forward to seeing what he will give to Hampshire and I think the Ageas Bowl will suit him, especially his bowling.’

The 29-year-old Rossouw, who played 36 ODIs and 15 T20Is before pursuing a career in the United Kingdom, is eager to secure a contract extension with Hampshire. The hard-hitting left-hander, too, would like to be involved in The Hundred – the England and Wales Cricket Board’s new limited-overs competition.

‘I hope to be back again next season. I love Hampshire and I love my cricket here and I love the south of England, so hopefully I can stay here,’ he added.

‘We are still in talks. I would like to think if I do well this season I can be in with a shout for The Hundred. The Hundred is definitely one of my goals to be a part of next season, so hopefully I can put in some good performances in the Blast and get selected.’

Photo: Getty Images