Harris believes Middlesex can take him to the very top
James Harris believes his move to Middlesex could bring a lot of trophies – and a lot of England caps.
The 22-year-old seam bowler was in huge demand after opting to leave Glamorgan at the end of last season, a decision he calls “heart-wrenching”.
But he is in no doubt that his decision to head to London was the right one.
“The decision was based around what’s going to progress my career the most and I want to fill my trophy cabinet as well,” he told West London Sport.
“Middlesex have the nucleus of a young team who will hopefully stay together for a long time and be very successful. I want to look back on a lot of trophies and a lot of England caps as well.”
Harris is already very close, having been named in England’s 30-man performance squad, which will provide the basis of the teams picked this season.
“There’s huge competition for places in that England team, especially among the seamers,” he said.
“It’s about doing what you can to be top of the next list should a place become available.
“There’ll be opportunities this summer because Finny [Middlesex team-mate Steve Finn], Broad, and Anderson won’t be able to play every game.
“It would be a great achievement to get a cap and hopefully I’ll do it sooner rather than later – but as long as I’m progressing day in day out then I’ll be very happy.”
Helping the Welshman to progress is Angus Fraser, Middlesex’s director of cricket, who took 177 wickets for England in 46 Tests.
Harris is already feeling the benefit.
He explained: “To have Angus at the helm, it’s a pretty big thing.
“I’m a similar sort of bowler to Angus really, so to have his experience and know-how is a huge thing.
“I hope that’s what will make the difference between being a very good cricketer and a world-class international cricketer.”
A small hamstring strain has prevented Harris from making his home debut at Lord’s this week.
But he can’t wait to play at the famous venue, which was another factor in his decision to sign for Middlesex.
“It is a magical place and the chance to play here every other week of the season was a huge thing,” he said.
“Not only that, I really want to play for England and the Lord’s slope is something you need to get used to as well.
“So to be able to get used to that playing for Middlesex will hopefully give me a leg-up. I’m so happy with the decision I’ve made.”
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19/04/2013 @ 6:15 am
Harris is a seriously good cricketer and will be a massive player for The Middle over the next few years (hard to believe he’s still only 22). We are very lucky to have him and credit must go to Angus Fraser and the coaching staff for their ambition in driving the club back to the glory days.
Up the Middle !