“Fit” Harmison to join England

After a heavy focus on his form and fitness, playing domestic cricket in South Africa, Steve Harmison will fly out to join his England team-mates on their tour of Sri Lanka.

Harmison has played two SuperSport games for the Lions, taking 13 wickets at an average of 20.15 under the close watch of new England bowling coach, Ottis Gibson. Chairman of selectors, David Graveney, and Gibson discussed the matter and believe that Harmison has proved his fitness for the tour.

Amidst his wicket-taking, Harmison has struggled with rhythm, evidenced by several noballs and wides against the Cobras. Yet he took match figures of 9 for 169 in that game, including a 6-wicket haul in the second innings. Harmison spoke realistically about his place in the England side. “I desperately want to play for England, but if I’m supposed to be in the side for line-and-length consistency I shouldn’t be,” he said.

“Let’s be honest, I’m not the best 83mph bowler available to England or the best at 85mph. But when things are going right, with my height and bounce, I can be the best 90mph-plus bowler.”

In light of the good news of Harmison’s return, James Anderson has pulled up injured in net sessions, struggling with a stiff back. However, the England management do not believe the injury to be anything serious at this point in time.