South African cricketer Simon Harmer has publicly stated that England should select Jack Leach for their scheduled Test tour of his homeland this winter. Harmer's endorsement comes alongside significant scrutiny regarding how slow bowling is currently handled and supported within the English county cricket system.
Harmer made the case that Leach deserves a place in the squad when England travel to South Africa for the winter Test series. By advocating for Leach's inclusion on the tour of his native country, Harmer highlighted the slow bowler as a key figure England ought to take along for their upcoming Test commitments.
Alongside his backing for Leach, Harmer drew attention to broader coaching concerns, suggesting there is a noticeable shortage of spin coaches operating within county cricket. In Harmer's view, the domestic county structure is failing to provide adequate coaching resources tailored specifically to slow bowlers trying to develop their game.
The South African indicated that this scarcity of dedicated spin coaching in county cricket ultimately leaves slow bowlers feeling "isolated." As England prepare for their winter Test tour of South Africa, Harmer's comments spotlight both his backing for Leach's selection and his critique of the support provided to spinners across county cricket.