STEVE HARMISON may have bowled his last ball for England after being overlooked for the tour of South Africa. Despite national selector Geoff Miller insisting the door was still open for the Durham paceman, England are looking towards the future in this winter’s series. Although 30-year-old Harmison played in the final two Ashes Tests of the summer, he has paid the price for long-term inconsistent form, having in 2004 been ranked the world’s number one bowler. Harmison indicated he did not want to tour Australia in 2010/2011, and indeed would consider announcing his formal retirement from international cricket if England did not give assurances he would be more than a “bit-part” player. While Miller maintained Harmison could yet force his way back into the squad, time does not appear to be on his side. “His performances, certainly over the last two or three tours, have not mirrored what he was capable of doing,” Millar said. “So consequently, and unfortunately for Steve, he has not been selected. “We have got to keep the conveyor belt working and know what Steve is capable of doing, and yes, we have to move on to think about Australia in 2010. “I understand what he is saying, that there is no point in him going out there as an experienced player and just walking around carrying drinks. “But he has to fight for his place just like everyone else, and perform and get into the side on quality and ability.” Miller yesterday announced 16-man Test and one-day squads at Lord’s, with Ravi Bopara, Owais Shah and spinner Monty Panesar also missing out, although South Africa-born Kevin Pietersen was included as he recovers from an Achilles operation. Miller was adamant Harmison will remain in the selectors’ thoughts for as long as he is available. “He didn’t mention that to me at all, but obviously that opportunity is there for him,” said Miller. “He has been a terrific performer for England over the years and has my full respect as a cricketer.” Pietersen has been sidelined since hobbling out of the Ashes victory at Lord’s and heading for an operation. His recovery then received a setback when the injury became infected. Although he is not certain to be fit for the two Twenty20 internationals on November 13 and 15, the England hierarchy remain optimistic Pietersen will return during the five-match one-day series, which begins on November 20 in Johannesburg and concludes a fortnight later in Durban. Miller said: “He is very optimistic. It has been a big injury and a big rehab. “I have talked to him several times and have been to see what his injury is like. “There might be a problem for the Twenty20, but he is pretty confident he will get there for some of the one-dayers.” | 
