Harmison backing Strauss (From The Northern Echo)

Harmison backing Strauss

9:25am Tuesday 9th February 2010 in

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STEVE HARMISON believes England captain Andrew Strauss will benefit from missing the forthcoming tours of the United Arab Emirates and Bangladesh.

With a huge year of cricket about to start in May, including an away Ashes series and a World Cup early in 2011, Strauss will miss the imminent trips overseas.

And Harmison, who admitted international cricket can be a ‘‘treadmill’’ understands the decision of the skipper.

The 31-year-old Durham pace bowler signed a new four-year contract with the county after being omitted from the England squad which toured South Africa.

He said: ‘‘I think the ECB are looking at the future, which is the right move as I think he’ll captain England for many years.

‘‘I would like to see Andrew Strauss go (on tour) but I know the treadmill of international cricket. You need that break.’’ And Harmison believes the departure of Ottis Gibson from the England set-up will benefit the West Indies.

The ECB have begun the search for a new fast bowling coach following the departure of the former Durham favourite. Barbados-born Gibson, who held the role for two years, has taken over as head coach of the West Iindies.

And Harmison added: ‘‘The West Indies is a massive job but obviously it’s his dream job.

‘‘Everyone wishes him well. We’ve lost a fine, fine bowling coach.

‘‘I would love to see Ottis get the West Indies on track – I think it’s their gain and England’s loss.’’