Simon Harmer claims “the fire is burning” to be part of the Proteas’ ODI plans for next year’s ICC Cricket World Cup in South Africa.
The 37-year-old off-spinner has played 14 Tests for the Proteas — including a sensational comeback during the subcontinent tours of Pakistan and India — but has never featured in a white-ball squad throughout his international career. However, that is not deterring him from making a play to be part of the squad for the first home World Cup in South Africa in 24 years.
“The fire’s burning, I can tell you that much,” Harmer told Independent Media in an exclusive interview. “I need to put in the performances, but the fire is burning. So yeah, don’t count me out.”
The Proteas’ spin cupboard is undeniably well-stocked at the moment, giving head coach Shukri Conrad a plethora of white-ball options. Left-arm quartet Keshav Maharaj, George Linde, Bjorn Fortuin, and Senuran Muthusamy lead the pecking order alongside Dolphins off-spinner Prenelan Subrayen. Lions leg-spinner Nqaba Peter was also recently featured in the South Africa ‘A’ tour of England.
Harmer is currently plowing away for Essex on the English County circuit, but he believes the positive changes emanating from South African cricket are fueling his desire to get back into the national setup.
“I think the South African sporting public — particularly the Springboks — have a massive following because of how well they do and because they win trophies. They’re an easy team to get behind,” Harmer noted.
“Slowly but surely, South African cricket is starting to turn public perception and get the fans on their side through sheer performance — getting to semifinals and finals of World Cups, and winning the World Test Championship.
“For me, being out of the picture, coming back in, and seeing all of that happen… it makes you want to put it all together. Now it’s a big push for October, making sure I’m ready and making sure I’m putting my name in the hat.”
Harmer also admitted to being pleasantly surprised by Shukri Conrad’s man-management skills within the dressing room, noting that the coach’s direct style perfectly suits his own character and personality.
“My experiences with Shuks show that we are like-minded people. I think we both value honesty and the truth. Things are black or white; there’s no bullshit,” Harmer said.
“If he thinks that you’re not pulling your weight, if he thinks that you’re slacking, or if he thinks that you’re not going to be involved, he tells you straight to your face. I appreciate that. I come from the old school. A team is made up of very different characters and some people need different things, but my dealings with Shuks and the way that he’s treated me give me nothing but good things to say.
“He’s a decision-maker. He’s not scared to make tough calls or change things. He’s proactive in that way. If he feels an intuition, whatever it is, he’s willing to act on it, and he’s not scared of getting things wrong.”
