Harmison excited about England's bowlers for South Africa tests

Steve Harmison has revealed that he is happy to allow the next generation of England bowlers to succeed on the international cricket scene.

The pace bowler has signed an extended four-year contract with Durham following his disappointment at being omitted from England's forthcoming tour of South Africa.

Harmison was quick to dismiss claims he was announcing his retirement from the international game, though expressed his belief that England are blessed with a number of good bowlers which can help him succeed.

“England are going through an exciting time with a group of young fast bowlers in South Africa. The pitches will be helpful for them and I really want them to do well,” said the 31-year-old.

The Durham paceman said he would love the opportunity to play for England in the future, but confessed to having doubts his body would be able to cope with the next Ashes tour in Australia beginning in 2010.

He warned the England squad that the forthcoming international tests with South Africa were going to be “tough” and reclaiming the Ashes in Australia would also be “hard”, but wished the players the best of luck in their quest to upset the international cricket odds in both series.

England follow their winter tests against South Africa with a spring tour of Bangladesh, with captain Andrew Strauss having indicated he may opt of the latter series to give his body a rest.

Vice-captain Alistair Cook has expressed his desire to fill Strauss’ role in Bangladesh, stating it would give him an arena to develop and showcase his skills as a leader in international cricket matches.