Harmy overcomes Test of nerves

Paceman hoping to build on his renaissance

Last updated: 8th August 2008

Steve Harmison England South Africa 4th Test Brit Oval

Harmison: successful return

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Steve Harmison admitted he was nervous before making an impressive return to the Test arena.

The paceman has come under criticism for his mental fragility since starring in England's Ashes success three years ago, but was back to something like his best on day one of the fourth Test.

Harmison, who last played Test cricket in March, claimed two crucial wickets in two balls to institute a South Africa collapse to 194 all out at The Oval.

The 29-year-old Durham bowler told Sky Sports: "Obviously I was delighted when Kev told me I was playing today - I felt no pressure but I was very nervous.

"I was really excited last night more than anything else - it was like Christmas Eve. There were a few nerves before the first ball but after that I was fine.

"It was just a normal game this season as I've probably clocked up 500 overs, business as usual.

"I managed to get the ball in a decent area, got a few wickets but I would have liked a few more and I should probably have had a couple more at the end - but I couldn't get it straight."

Future

As for the future, he added: "I'd love to think there's a future beyond this Test match but I'll have to work out where we go from here.

"The one-dayers are still out of the question - I won't go back on the decision I've made.

"But I have to get over this season when it finishes because the body will need time to digest what a hard season it's been."