Imran Tahir

[Kenny_Shovel]

Imran Tahir has signed for Yorkshire for the remainder of the season:

http://www.yorkshireccc.com/news/news26564671

Can anybody enlighten a Yorkshire supporter about this player? I must admit I'd never heard of him before!

[Sheikh]

Imran Tahir has signed for Yorkshire for the remainder of the season:

http://www.yorkshireccc.com/news/news26564671

Can anybody enlighten a Yorkshire supporter about this player? I must admit I'd never heard of him before!
He's a 28year old leg-spinner whose been on the fringes for some time now. I'm actually surprised he hasn't been included in the Pakistan A probables. I suppose his time has come and gone.


http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/pakistan/content/player/40618.html

[iZeeshan]

Imran Tahir. He was a really good domestic player. Never got called up. Shame.

[Muhammad]

Had a brief and unsuccessful spell with Middlesex in 2003.

As an under 19 player for Pak he was a teammate of Razzaq, Nazir, Farhat etc.

[Mercenary]

Imran Tahir has signed for Yorkshire for the remainder of the season:

http://www.yorkshireccc.com/news/news26564671

Can anybody enlighten a Yorkshire supporter about this player? I must admit I'd never heard of him before!

Imran Tahir is a legspinner who knows how to hold a bat (average of around 20 in limited overs games). He's been on the fringes of the Pakistan team for many years without getting a call up.

He was part of the youth squad that gave Pakistan players like Hasan Raza, Shoaib Malik, Abdur Razzaq, Yasir Arafat and Bazid Khan.

He's a very good bowler at domestic level but wasn't anything more than decent when given chances in the A team or National XI's.

He could prove a shrewd signing for Yorkshire.

[Saj]

A strange signing in my opinion Kenny considering you already have a certain Adil Rashid in your ranks.

[Kenny_Shovel]

A strange signing in my opinion Kenny considering you already have a certain Adil Rashid in your ranks.

A strange signing yes, but it wont be at the expence of Rashid.

Tahir seems to have been signed as we have a number of the games coming up where spin will play a big part. Last year Adil bowled well in tandom with our other young leggy Mark Lawson - who is unavailable at the moment due to "Personal reasons" - and they seem to want to go with 'spin-twins' again.

The signings not been welcomed with open arms by the supporters as we have another excellant young spin prospect in David Wainwright, who has been very impressive in ListA and 20/20 this year. It kind of plays into a general feeling that our youngsters arn't getting much of an opportunity this year. Adam Lyth for example, who been scoring plenty of runs for England U19 against the touring Pakistan U19 side, hasn't had a sniff of a chance at 1st team level.

[Kenny_Shovel]

Thanks for all the replies by the way; they back up and expand on what I'd already been able to find out.

[W63L35]

Imran Tahir is currently playing for Titans in South Africa and performing very well...!

His stats in the tournament (MTN Domestic Championship, 2007/08);
Player Mat Overs Mdns Runs Wkts BBI Ave Econ SR 4
Imran Tahir 8 54.5 4 231 14 4/16 16.50 4.21 23.5 1

Pretty high (#10) in the bowling stats;
http://stats.cricinfo.com/southafricandomestic/engine/records/bowling/most_wickets_career.html?id=3277;type=tournament

In today's match;
http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/southafricandomestic/engine/current/match/298912.html
Bowling O M R W Econ
Imran Tahir 7 1 17 2 2.42
Plus Titans are leading the points table;
http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/southafricandomestic/engine/series/298851.html?view=pointstable



I hope, he gets a chance to play in Pakistan!

[dblock]

How did he perform at Yorkshire?

[W63L35]

How did he perform at Yorkshire?
He played only in one match (1st class) for Yorkshire. The reason may be that Younis Khan took his place as an overseas player and didn't get a chance to play. JN Gillespie was the other overseas player. With Adil Rashid (another leggie) already in Yorkshire ranks, it was difficult for Tahir to get any chances.

[dblock]

He played only in one match (1st class) for Yorkshire. The reason may be that Younis Khan took his place as an overseas player and didn't get a chance to play. JN Gillespie was the other overseas player. With Adil Rashid (another leggie) already in Yorkshire ranks, it was difficult for Tahir to get any chances.

I remember Inzi took Younis Khan's place :P

(and he didn't do half aswell as YK).

[Legendary_Sage]

Imran Tahir is a legspinner who knows how to hold a bat (average of around 20 in limited overs games). He's been on the fringes of the Pakistan team for many years without getting a call up.

He was part of the youth squad that gave Pakistan players like Hasan Raza, Shoaib Malik, Abdur Razzaq, Yasir Arafat and Bazid Khan.

He's a very good bowler at domestic level but wasn't anything more than decent when given chances in the A team or National XI's.

He could prove a shrewd signing for Yorkshire.
well he played in south african league cricket and jacques Rudolph was very impressed with him... he got support from mushtaq as well which helped him getting a contract from the county...
well he is quicker through the air.... and a good bowler as well more like kumble ....

[Saj]

Hampshire have signed Pakistan A player Imran Tahir as their overseas player for the rest of the season.

The 29-year-old leg-spinner has previous county experience with Middlesex and Yorkshire.

Tahir has an excellent first-class record with the ball, taking 240 wickets at an average of 26.

Tahir's registration has been confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board and he is available for Sunday's Pro40 match at Nottinghamshire.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/counties/hampshire/7514678.stm

He's replacing Shane Bond.

I've never actually seen this lad bowl. For those that have, is he any good ?

[Saj]

Good start for Imran at Hampshire.

4 wickets on debut versus Lancashire

[Saj]

Another 4 wickets in the second innings for him already, thats 8 for the match.

http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/countycricket2008/engine/current/match/319917.html

[sehsan]

Another 4 wickets in the second innings for him already, thats 8 for the match.

http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/countycricket2008/engine/current/match/319917.html

thats 9 saj bahi, he took 5 in first.

[Noddy]

Just spent the evening at dinner with Immi, Pothas and Brown.....

[Saj]

make that 11 for the match so far.

Looking at his stats :-

http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/countycricket2008/content/current/player/40618.html

He's taken 240 first class wickets in 66 wickets at an average of just over 26.

One that has slipped through the selectors "net" perhaps?

[JohnDTraynor]

He has taken 12 wickets in his current match

[Saj]

Just spent the evening at dinner with Immi, Pothas and Brown.....
Noddy bhai. I dont know what he had to eat but whatever it was, its worked for him :)

[pakistanbest]

another talent being wasted, players like him need to be given a fair chance especially as he is an all rounder

[cornered paktiger]

I found this match report interesting ot least because it seems that Imran Tahir wants to play test cricket for.............South Africa!!!!!

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/cricket/counties/article4489114.ece

[Boi]

I found this match report interesting ot least because it seems that Imran Tahir wants to play test cricket for.............South Africa!!!!!

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/cricket/counties/article4489114.ece

Might aswell cos he aint gonna get chance for Pakistan and South Africa need a really good spinner!!

[kingusama92]

^^ Yea he probably won't get a chance in Pakistan... we have Usman Qadir for the future :)))...

[Boi]

I saw him bowl today and well he was very impressive got some turn and bounce from the wicket and he bagged himself a five wicket haul!! against Sussex in pro 40 match

He is another player wasted by PCB!!

[Awesome Anjum]

Imran Tahir has been a revelation this season for Hants, and has probably been their most incisive bowler in the second half of the season.

Just got Ramprakash out, clean bowled for 61 to finish with figures of 4-61.

[Wazeeri]

The guy has been performing for years for a dozen different clubs around the world,

Why no call up to PK when he is a Lahori?

[Kashif]

The guy has been performing for years for a dozen different clubs around the world,

Why no call up to PK when he is a Lahori?

He probably could not fork out the 2-3 Lakh rupee 'team reservation' for a spot in the A team, Under 19 team or local regional 11.

[Wazeeri]

With the lack of good spinners in the team I think someone with an average in the mid 20s deserves a call up.

[Awesome Anjum]

He probably could not fork out the 2-3 Lakh rupee 'team reservation' for a spot in the A team
He has played 'A' team cricket.

[Taurus]

His figures were actually 4/29. He has 36 wickets @ 16 so far. Better than any other spinner around, I expect.

[Random Aussie]

His figures were actually 4/29. He has 36 wickets @ 16 so far. Better than any other spinner around, I expect.

Does he want to come play for Australia? We have nice beaches :D

[pjkilla]

brilliant spell yesterday
quite spectacular

[usman_ash14]

Does he want to come play for Australia? We have nice beaches :D

We will trade him for mitchelle johnson, what u say?

[Random Aussie]

We will trade him for mitchelle johnson, what u say?

Done :Evil

[pakistanbest]

another bowling sensation being wasted by pakistan

[usman_ash14]

Done :Evil

imagine if their was trading system in place :(

but thats a fair deal for both teams...
we get an alrounder and a work horse that is bound to improve
and u get an off spinner who from what we've heard is good enough to wlk in ur team

[Jahangir Khan]

Regarding Imran Tahir. It's worth noting that he is married to a South African woman is settled in South Africa and wants to play Test Cricket for......... South Africa.

I suppose he felt chances would be limited with Kaneria and Afridi around so I guess South Africa is his best chance of playing Test Cricket. I think he will qualify pretty soon.

[12thMan]

Tahir going back tp South Africa

Hampshire will be without overseas spinner Imran Tahir for their crucial final County Championship match against Nottinghamshire on Wednesday.

Tahir has a contract with South African side Titans who want him back for the start of their season.

"He's done a great job. He's been the catalyst to all our positive results," Hampshire's acting manager Giles White told BBC Radio Solent.

Tahir has taken 36 wickets in just six Championship matches.

White added: "I'm disappointed. Titans allowed him to play for us which has been great but unfortunately part of the deal was he'd have to return after the Surrey game. He's been fantastic over the last couple of months."
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/45018000/jpg/_45018758_-6.jpg

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/cricket/counties/hampshire/7616417.stm

[Mian Hassan]

Hampshire will be without overseas spinner Imran Tahir for their crucial final County Championship match against Nottinghamshire on Wednesday.

Tahir has a contract with South African side Titans who want him back for the start of their season.

"He's done a great job. He's been the catalyst to all our positive results," Hampshire's acting manager Giles White told BBC Radio Solent.

Tahir has taken 36 wickets in just six Championship matches.

White added: "I'm disappointed. Titans allowed him to play for us which has been great but unfortunately part of the deal was he'd have to return after the Surrey game. He's been fantastic over the last couple of months."

[Mian Hassan]

I personal think he was great for the matches he played i really enjoyed watching him play!!!!!!

[Pak_mystery]

Great news,looking forward to watching him play here,i hope he carries on his great form and i hope pakistan selectors are watching his performance..

[12thMan]

Great news,looking forward to watching him play here,i hope he carries on his great form and i hope pakistan selectors are watching his performance..If they watch it or not he is in South Africa and better off looking for a spot in that team. Anyway I am sure Pakistan has decent spinners who play domestic cricket and deserve a chance above him. He can come to Paksitan and spend a year or two but that is too risky. South Africa should be his target

[Pak_mystery]

If they watch it or not he is in South Africa and better off looking for a spot in that team. Anyway I am sure Pakistan has decent spinners who play domestic cricket and deserve a chance above him. He can come to Paksitan and spend a year or two but that is too risky. South Africa should be his target
i think you right there.. And since SA dont realy have any world class spiners he might as well wanna try to make a place in the team here...

[12thMan]

When news of Imran Tahir staying at Hampshire for 2 more years makes main page of the South East section of BBC then it only means there is no cricket going on. They are digging and digging and came up with this as there is no other sport there

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/cricket/counties/hampshire/7633322.stm

[Awesome Anjum]

Tahir takes 4 wickets in the first inns.

[Taurus]

Watched him today (not out of interest but because I'm a Nottinghamshire supporter). He bowled terribly to the proper batsmen and Samit Patel in particular gave him a real battering, but once he had the comfort of poorer batsmen to bowl at he made a mockery of them. In short, he bowled a lot of long-hops and full-tosses and looked distinctly short of Test class at a time when he was bowling to good players with in/out fields. With attacking fielders and poorer batsmen, he did weave a bit of magic. It seems like a decent pitch for spin, but he didn't really make enough of it at first. It told me that it's very easy to hype someone up based on good figures. As it was today he's certainly not a better option than Danish Kaneria, though he might simply have had a poor day.

He came out of it with good figures, at least, but his wickets were all tail-enders; Swann, Ealham, Adams and Pattinson. I shall reserve a comprehensive judgement until I see him bowl again in the fourth innings.

[Awesome Anjum]

He came out of it with good figures, at least, but his wickets were all tail-enders; Swann, Ealham, Adams and Pattinson. I shall reserve a comprehensive judgement until I see him bowl again in the fourth innings.

Thanks for letting us know, though its a bit harsh to call Swann, Ealham and Adams genuine tail -enders

[Xoib]

Watching it live on Star Cricket.

Not impressed, has a Shane Warne like action but of course noway near that class. Too many long hops and full tosses and doesn't have any great deal of variety, good test batsmen will hammer him if this is the norm and even though I am no supporter of Kaneria but if I have to compare then I will agree with Augustus and say that Danesh is still the better option.

[swaziboy]

Tahir to play for Proteas?
2008-09-25 22:
sports24.co.za

Johannesburg - A great cricket season awaits Imran Tahir.

It is no secret that Mickey Arthur, coach of the South African team, is eager to involve the 29-year-old Titans leg spinner in the national set-up.

It sounds increasingly likely that Tahir will join Graeme Smith's (captain) squad as soon as he qualifies to play for South Africa.

Tahir will be able to play for South Africa only from next year, but is already available as a local player for the Titans.

“This is outstanding news for us," said Elise Lombard, CEO of the Titans.

The reason Tahir can't play for South Africa before next year is that four years have to elapse between his last match for Pakistan's A team and his first match for his new country.

The Titans are full of praise for Tahir. Apparently only a few batsmen are able to read his googly.

He has the ability to place the ball, which as a leg spinner he delivers at high speed, on the proverbial tickey.

Tahir, who is married to a South African, is still playing for his English county, Hampshire, but will be in South Africa next week for the Titans' first SuperSport match against the Dolphins in Durban.

He started playing for the Titans towards the end of the season before last and made a big impact last season. He and all-rounder Roelof van der Merwe were the Titans' big heroes.

He has also played a significant part in Hampshire's success this season.

Since taking over the role of spinner from Shane Warne, he has knocked over 36 wickets in six first-class matches.

The great advantage for the Titans is that Tahir is now a local player. This means they have to pick only three black players to complete their quota of four.

Tahir will also be one of the Titans' key players in the Champions' League tournament, which will be played in India from 3 to 10 December.

The tournament, in which eight teams compete, is the richest provincial tournament in the world. The Titans and Dolphins will represent South Africa.

The other participating teams are the Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings (India), Victoria Bushrangers and the West Australian Warriors (Australia), Middlesex (Engeland) and Pakistan's champion, which will be crowned next month.

There is R50m on offer as prize money. The winner gets R26m and the runner-up just over R8m.

Even if the Titans were to win none of their games, they would still earn more money than they received as the winners of last season's local ODI and Pro20 series.

Each team will receive about R2 million just for participating in the tournament.

[swaziboy]

sounds like history in the making here

all the best to this lad

[kingusama92]

he's not that great of a bowler... he;s ok for first class cricket.. he will get owned in international cricket...

[Rana]

he's not that great of a bowler... he;s ok for first class cricket.. he will get owned in international cricket...

What are you talking about, hes a wrist spinner with all the variaties and they are very rare to find in first class cricket, especialy the good quality ones!

He is pretty damn useful and i assure you he is better than most leg spinners right now in the world! by that i mean if i had a choice of...
Chawla, Kaneria, and Tahir, i would choose him, he has a that sort of flare about him!

[kingusama92]

What are you talking about, hes a wrist spinner with all the variaties and they are very rare to find in first class cricket, especialy the good quality ones!

He is pretty damn useful and i assure you he is better than most leg spinners right now in the world!

being a wrist spinner doesn't make you a shane warne all of a sudden... just look at the Aussies they have found Mcgain as their leggie for the upcoming India tour... does that make him good quality not really it's just that the Aussies can't find anyone ... and the same goes for the Saffers who can't find anyone so they are using Tahir as a replacement.

No doubt Tahir has been excellent this county season... probably one of the better bowlers ... but having seen a bit of him ... he is not good enough to play international cricket... he seems to get flayed by good quality batsman and he tends to pick up wickets of lower order batsman to pad his stats... but still in one way i agree with you since the South Africans don't have any good leggies i guess they might as well try him out...

[Rana]

being a wrist spinner doesn't make you a shane warne all of a sudden... just look at the Aussies they have found Mcgain as their leggie for the upcoming India tour... does that make him good quality not really it's just that the Aussies can't find anyone ... and the same goes for the Saffers who can't find anyone so they are using Tahir as a replacement.

No doubt Tahir has been excellent this county season... probably one of the better bowlers ... but having seen a bit of him ... he is not good enough to play international cricket... he seems to get flayed by good quality batsman and he tends to pick up wickets of lower order batsman to pad his stats... but still in one way i agree with you since the South Africans don't have any good leggies i guess they might as well try him out...

i guess you might be correct, but then again the fact is that a good quality wrist spinner is probably the hardest to find in cricket, by the looks of it, tahir has control and variation, he is definetly international class in my views and the great thing is, he can also bat a fair bit!

[kingusama92]

It will definitely be interesting to see how he fares when he gets the call to play for South Africa...

[Rana]

He is a Pakistani though, i mean he has a pakistani passport. I think This might cause a problem!

[Oxy]

He is a Pakistani though, i mean he has a pakistani passport. I think This might cause a problem!

He is as South African as Pieterson is English...and look at him now.

Once you've qualifed - it doesnt really matter.

Good luck to him in SA

[12thMan]

He is South African from what I understand and good luck to him there. He has a better chance there then anywhere else

[Random Aussie]

Gotta be a better bet than Paul Harris anyway

[usman_ash14]

Gotta be a better bet than Paul Harris anyway

Sorry man Saffers took them away
we were too slow with our johnson - tahir trade :(

[Lahoria]

That's the bottom line, if SA side has one missing piece it is a quality spinner and if Tahir can provide them some quality spells SA might become the best team in the world.

[Rana]

That's the bottom line, if SA side has one missing piece it is a quality spinner and if Tahir can provide them some quality spells SA might become the best team in the world.

But thue question is, is pcb gonna snap him up before he even plays for RSA?

[Lahoria]

There is no reason for Pakistan to go after him, the selectors have seen him over the years and they obviously weren't impressed. I doubt he would play for Pakistan now even if PCB recalled him to the national squad, he would probably have a much better chance of holding his spot in SA lineup than Paksitan.

[Rana]

There is no reason for Pakistan to go after him, the selectors have seen him over the years and they obviously weren't impressed. I doubt he would play for Pakistan now even if PCB recalled him to the national squad, he would probably have a much better chance of holding his spot in SA lineup than Paksitan.

This is basically the whole problem, when he was a young man trying to break into the pakistani side nobody cared, now that he has been spotted by the saffies, i bet there is going to be some dispute over him.

[Pak_mystery]

Well thats wonderful news,atleast i would love to see him play alongside hashim amla...pakistan never appriciate him. I realy hope he plays for SA. and since SA dont realy have quality spinners he might be the best option to go for if they wana make their spinning department stronger.. Good luck to him... Cant wait for the SA season to start,would love to c him in action live.

[Kashif]

Good for Tahir and I wish him all the best. Early days but SA might get the missing quality wrist spinner they currently lack.

[Xoib]

Good for Tahir and I wish him all the best. Early days but SA might get the missing quality wrist spinner they currently lack.
Saw him bowl yesterday and he is not test class

[Random Aussie]

Saw him bowl yesterday and he is not test class

Out of interest would you consider Paul Harris test class?

[PlanetPakistan]

Out of interest would you consider Paul Harris test class?
think he is slightly inferior than Sehwag(the bowler)

[Xoib]

Out of interest would you consider Paul Harris test class?

Nahi.

[Random Aussie]

Nahi.

Well Tahir only has to better than Harris it would seem.

Obviously it would be a lot harder for him to crack a Pakistan rep side that South African side as a wrist spinner.

Pakistan has heaps of wrist spinners, Saffers have almost zero wrist or finger spinners.

[Lahoria]

Thanks Aussie for being the voice of reason, I don't know why ppl are excited about this fellow who would have never made the Pakistani team. He is probably a bit better than Paul Harris and that is good enough for SA so good luck to him.


Btw I wonder if Australia would go the same route and import an overseas spinner from Pak or India :)

[Random Aussie]

Thanks Aussie for being the voice of reason, I don't know why ppl are excited about this fellow who would have never made the Pakistani team. He is probably a bit better than Paul Harris and that is good enough for SA so good luck to him.


Btw I wonder if Australia would go the same route and import an overseas spinner from Pak or India :)

Unlikely. We have a pretty structured system. We would be more likely to put resources in to talent camps and academies for the Oz kids.

It is however pretty likely that in a few years or a decade we might have Australian born players of Indian or Pak heritage playing for Australia.

Usman Kwaja (sp?) has made the NSW team (Pakistan heritage I believe)

There has been a lot of migration over the past decade and as the children of those migrants from cricket mad countries grow up....

[Kashif]

Saw him bowl yesterday and he is not test class


And where did I say he is currently of 'test class'? :26:


As Random Aussie has stated, he just needs to be better than the current SA spinner, Paul Harris to get selected for SA.

[Rana]

Well Tahir only has to better than Harris it would seem.

Obviously it would be a lot harder for him to crack a Pakistan rep side that South African side as a wrist spinner.

Pakistan has heaps of wrist spinners, Saffers have almost zero wrist or finger spinners.

He is better than Harris no doubt, he is better than Chawla, Schofield, Yardy, PANESAR, Patel and Adil Rashid in my opinion.

[Keith]

But harris has got blonde hair!!

Puts me in an awkward position now though. I don't see Pieterson as an englishman, so if i see Tahir as a saffer then i would be a hippocrate. Maybe i can say that he has a south african wife, will that make it ok?

Jokes aside, we need a "quality spinner", the likes of harris gets too excited when it does actually turn.

[Ghoshtbuster]

His record seems pretty good, and he will surely be a class above anything South Africa can produce. But I would struggle to believe he is better than Kaneria or Afridi, not to mention any other young spinners in First class/ U-19 level.

[Awesome Anjum]

Source - http://www.dnaindia.com/report.asp?newsid=1193453

KARACHI: Imran Tahir might not be a name to reckon with in Pakistan but the leg spinner has become a household name in England and South Africa and is now eyeing the South African national team.

The 29-year old decided to try his luck abroad after he was consistently neglected by the selectors despite his solid and consistent performances at the domestic level for the last eight years in Pakistan.

Tahir has an impressive tally of 276 first class wickets in 72 matches and 74 in list A matches and his leg spin has now made him perhaps the only Pakistani cricketer to have contracts with two different foreign first class teams at the same time.

Tahir recently inked a two-year deal with English county, Hampshire and also plays for the Titans team in South Africa after impressive performances for them.

Although he made it to the Pakistan 'A' team, he has never been called up for the national side even though in one season he took 100 wickets, something which was obviously too much for him to handle.

"I don't want to blame anybody because I wanted to play international cricket. I felt there was no chance for me to do that in Pakistan so I had to decide to do something in my life as I am a professional cricketer at the end of the day," Tahir told Geo News from England.

Tahir is now looking to play for South Africa.

"Look I have got married to a South African ... it is a very sad thing for me that I am not playing for Pakistan. Pakistan gave me the name as all my life I played there but last two seasons were obviously very disappointing for me," Tahir said.

"It was frustrating I have never been in contention for a place in the Pakistan camp, and I don't want to say anything about it. I just felt there was no respect for me, as simple as that. I had to decide, my wife wanted me to play in South Africa, and I am gonna play there and obviously try to get a place in the international side if I can," he said.

Tahir said the procedure for getting South African citizenship is very long but he is confident it will be sorted out this year.

"So one of these years I will be eligible for my residency and then I will wait for the South African Board to call me up. If that happens that would be great and I am gonna do 100 per cent for South Africa because at the end of the day they are the people who will give me the chance.

Being a Muslim, I will do as I am told in Islam that wherever I will get to play, I will try to give my best for them and do something special for them," he said.

Tahir comes from a humble background and his Pakistan "A" team manager, Abdul Raquib believes economic issues also forced Tahir to look outside Pakistan.

"No doubt he is a good bowler and I recommended him to the Board. But he has to care for six years and he had to look elsewhere," Raquib said.

Test player Hasan Raza, who is banned for his Indian Cricket League connections, said it was sad that talented players like Tahir are leaving and felt the issue needs to be discussed as it was a lose to Pakistan cricket.

"The authorities must seriously look at this issue of more and more players getting frustrated with our cricket system and trying to settle abroad and qualify for their adopted countries," he said.

[Pak_mystery]

Its obviously sad that pakistan has consistantly neglected him and he had to look abroad...there must be so many players like him in pakistan whom the selectors keep neglecting.. I hope tahir gets his paper work sorted out as soon as possible and qualifies to play for SA...

[dblock]

a) Pakistan plays no test cricket nowadays anyway
b) County Championship is no solid guarantee for success in International cricket.

But best of luck to him.

[Mian Hassan]

2 be honest i don't think he will make it as a international player.

[Informer]

Batsmen in South Africa's domestic league are very poor players of spin and that made Tahir look like a very good spinner. However he is better than all the South African spinners

[Pak_mystery]

However he is better than all the South African spinners
isnt that good enough a reason for him to be selected?

[dblock]

isnt that good enough a reason for him to be selected?

He can't be any worse than Harris can he?

[Pak_mystery]

He can't be any worse than Harris can he?
nope,hes way better than harris..

[Saj]

I was speaking to an elderly gentleman recently at the Lancs v Kent game and he was talking about Imran, who was his clubs overseas pro for a while.

He had nothing but praise for him and said that he was a very hard working, talented cricketer who always had time to help out the younger players.

[Informer]

Tahir not transformation black
2008-09-29 22:07

Imran Tahir,
Christo Buchner

Johannesburg - Imran Tahir, the Pakistani bowler now available as a local player, is being classified as a "white player" for the Titans, as he may also be for South Africa later.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has made it clear to the Titans that Tahir is not regarded as a "player of colour."

Titans CEO Elise Lombard says the explanation is that Tahir is a foreigner and did not come through the development channels in South African cricket.

He was, therefore, not part of the transformation process. For this reason the Titans still have to field four black players, even if Tahir is selected.

CSA said the same principle would apply if Tahir were to be picked for South Africa.

On Monday, the day he returned from England, Tahir was included in the Titans' 13-man squad for the first SuperSport match against the Dolphins starting at Kingsmead in Durban on Thursday.

Last season's captain, Martin van Jaarsveld, arrives in the country on Tuesday. Van Jaarsveld is a strong candidate for being named player of the English season.

The former Lions opening bowler, Blake Snijman, will be making his debut for the Titans. Another newcomer is fast bowler Basheer Walters.

Tahir and lefthand spinner Paul Harris are both in the squad and are both likely to play.

“We are taking 13 players to Durban to provide for all possibilities,” said the captain, Pierre Joubert. “We don't know what to expect and that is why we are making provision for any eventuality.”

Allrounder Albie Morkel was not considered, due to his shoulder injury.

The seamer Brendon Reddy will also be out of action for a considerable length of time after he was recently involved in a motor car accident.

[Keith]

Correctly so to. Transformation in sport in sa is very important. There are millions of untapped talent in our townships and they should be given all the opportunities to succeed at the highest level. Club and provincial level is the place to start. Academy level is also very very important. The internaitonal arena is something completely different though. International teams should be chosen on merit and merit only! If however, there are 2 players competing (1 black / 1 white) for the same position and they are similar in talent / technique then i feel that the "player of colour" should be given preference.

Merely having "players of colour" in a squad for "token reasons" is showing disrespect to those "players of colour" and they will tell you the same as well. They want to be chosen becuase they are good enough and not because the colour of their skin.

Fortunately i hail from a province where transformation has never really been an issue.

[SameerM]

Imran Tahir is not brown???? he is WHITE?????
i had an inner feeling that this guy was a reversed coconut...

make ur rules up as u go along......anyways

I'm quite sad Tahir didnt follow up his Pak ties, I guess he knows where he will be more successfull and required long term.
Not as if SA have any spinners hey? this guy will definitely do well for them.

[Keith]

Hey man, we have harris!!! He turns em straight!!!!

Got to love my country even the "non whites are white now!!!"

Goes back to what i have beleived in all my life, we are all equally human!!

[SameerM]

exactly Keith.. u know wots gonna happen now?

all the Ex-pak ICL crew are going to move to SA and play as whites !!

lolll SA could be made up of WHITE ex-pakistan int'l players... wot a thought hey?

[Keith]

Maybe we should not consider black or white or brown anymore?

How about green? Varying shades of green BUT still all green!!!

[SameerM]

Imran Tahir is great.. fullll of confidence... calm as a cucumber

Also one of those showoff types, a bit like Afridi, has big hairstyle and always playing with it.

this guy will be big.. i seen him bowl domestically, and he has a killer variation in his deliveries.
most with the same hand positioning etc.

he got the away spinner, googly, and in spinner... wot else do u want?

[Awesome Anjum]

Already taken a fiver, playing for Titans today.

[hashman]

Ah well. Unfortunately he wont be playing for Pakistan. Do you guys reckon his batting is better than that of Paul Harris because Harris has been a pretty good night watchman on a number of occasions.

[Informer]

Ah well. Unfortunately he wont be playing for Pakistan. Do you guys reckon his batting is better than that of Paul Harris because Harris has been a pretty good night watchman on a number of occasions.

South Africa does not need a night watchman, they need a decent spinner

[MaVeRiCk]

This guy has really impressed me, hes picked up many wickets for in the south arican cricket league for the Titans and for his stints with english county sides.. This guy is deadly accurate,spins the ball and has an amazing action.. Dont you guys feel as if he deserves a call up with the national side?

[mmkextreme_1]

Apprantly Pakistan doesn't care for the guy, there are reports that he can be playing for the SA cricket team!

[Dodgy Umpire]

This guy has really impressed me, hes picked up many wickets for in the south arican cricket league for the Titans and for his stints with english county sides.. This guy is deadly accurate,spins the ball and has an amazing action.. Dont you guys feel as if he deserves a call up with the national side?


Aparently he will be playing for South Africa next year. He has married a South African lady and his 4 year qualification period will be completed in Feb.

South African coach has already said that he can't wait for him to become available for int'l squad. :batman:

[Random Aussie]

Any Pakistan leg spinners want to move to Australia? :D

Nice beaches and the pay for a cricketer is pretty good

[muhammad saad]

Any Pakistan leg spinners want to move to Australia? :D

Nice beaches and the pay for a cricketer is pretty good

NO they will prefer India instead (Aushtlalia ij not chefe for dem)

[dblock]

We've generally not fully utilized the talents of Saqlain, Kaneria, might aswell allow Tahir go and make SA even stronger. I don't think he's great spinner in the making but he would be more competent than Harris and give another dimension to SA.

[muhammad saad]

South African coach has already said that he can't wait for him to become available for int'l squad. :batman:


Just like England waited for Peterson :)

[ubaid awan]

Since readmission to international cricket in 1991 South Africa have been in need of a spin bowler who can win them matches. Their weight may finally be over next season when Pakistani spin bowler Imran Tahir qualifies to play for South Africa.

There were times early after readmission when South Africa went with an all pace attack, no matter what, often not choosing a spin bowler at all. They realised that variation was key to success and began their search for a spin bowler. Pat Symcox, Paul Adams and Nicky Boje were the bowlers that made the biggest impact but often found themselves being used defensively rather than as wicket takers. They were used to tie down an end or to give the quickies a rest. It is fair to say they were not utilised to their best ability.

In Paul Harris, in Test matches, and Johan Botha, in ODI’s, South Africa have identified two spin bowlers who will be given opportunities to play significant roles in the team. With the next World Cup in the sub continent the need for spin bowlers to play an active part in the team have increased, if South Africa hope to make any impression in the tournament.

Harris and Botha have both done good jobs for South Africa and have been fixtures in recent Test and ODI teams. However this should not stop the search for a match winning spin bowler, in terms of bettering the squad, and increasing competition. That search has brought forward Imran Tahir. The Pakistani spin bowler, capped at “A” level, has been playing for the Titans for the last few seasons, has settled and married a South African wife, and as of next season will be eligible to play for his adopted country.

Tahir has been a success in South Africa, where he plays with Harris for the Titans, and has just come off a fantastic personal season in English County cricket. His first class bowling average is an impressive 25,07 with a best of 8/76. Clearly South Africa would do well to draught him in as soon as possible. Whether it is as a front line spin bowler, used in an attacking manner, or as part of a spin duo with Harris on spin friendly pitches, the adopted South African is an exciting option for the team to look forward to.

South Africa famously lost KP to an adopted country, one he now leads, it seems like they will be taking advantage of the same system to increase their spin options.

[itduzz]

Johannesburg – South Africa’s secret cricket weapon will become available for the national team on April Fools Day next year.

Imran Tahir, a 29-year-old legbreak bowler who has played for Pakistan A, will be, theoretically, available to play for South Africa against Australia on April 3.

Tahir, who was born in Lahore, is married to a South African woman. He says he will be ready for action if he is selected for South Africa.

“This (South Africa) is now my country,” he said here on Tuesday. “I’ll be available for South Africa on April 1.”

It will be exactly four years after he last played for Pakistan A.

“My biggest ambition, ever since I was a boy in Pakistan, has been to play cricket at the highest level. If I can do so for South Africa, I’ll give everything. I am a South African now and this is where my loyalty lies,” he said.

Tahir has set tongues wagging with his ability to bowl a googly that batsmen find hard to read. It is no secret that Proteas coach Mickey Arthur is eager to bring him into the national setup.

“I have learnt that patience is important; patience when you bowl and also in how you handle life,” he said.

“I enjoy a challenge and it will be a huge challenge to try to get into my new country’s team. I realise, therefore, that much attention will be focussed on me when I play for the Titans in the domestic season. I will have to perform. But I believe in my ability. That’s why I don’t back away from any challenge.

“I still have a number of years of good cricket in me. The support I receive from my family and friends also help a lot. I believe one should work hard to get what you want. After I was selected for Pakistan’s Under-19 team, I bowled on my own for three hours a day. That’s where my accuracy comes from,” he explained.

:afridi

[Genghis]

Can't blame him entirely. He's got the opportunity and he might as well take it. He was alwyas further down in the pecking order and if this is his best chance, then all the best to him. Just disapointing that we didn't give him the chance to prove himself for Pakistan.

[Random Aussie]

Oi this is not fair, since when do the Saffers get to have a half decent spinner?

[Awesome Anjum]

Source - CricInfo


Tahir eager to represent South Africa

Cricinfo staff



Imran Tahir will be eligible to play for South Africa next year © Getty Images


South Africa's search for a quality spinner could end next year, when legspinner Imran Tahir, who was born in Lahore, qualifies to play for the country. Tahir, married to a South African woman, will be available to play for South Africa on April 1, 2009, and the bowler is eager to play at the "highest level".

"South Africa is now my country," Tahir said. "I'll be available for South Africa on April 1." That date will be exactly fours years since Tahir played for Pakistan A. If South Africa's selectors decide to pick Tahir, who plays for the Titans, he could be in line for his debut during the home ODI series against Australia, which starts on April 3.

"My biggest ambition, ever since I was a boy in Pakistan, has been to play cricket at the highest level. If I can do so for South Africa, I'll give everything. I am a South African now and this is where my loyalty lies."

Tahir, 29, has taken 291 first-class wickets at an average of 25.07 and 74 List A scalps at 21.74. In the 2007-08 season, he took 31 wickets in six first-class games for the Titans and 14 in eight one-dayers at an average of 16.50 and economy-rate of 4.21. He joined Hampshire for the 2008 county season and was one of the better overseas signings: in seven Championship matches, he took 44 wickets at 16.68.

"I have learnt that patience is important; patience when you bowl and also in how you handle life," he said. "I enjoy a challenge and it will be a huge challenge to try to get into my new country's team. I realise, therefore, that much attention will be focused on me when I play for the Titans in the domestic season. I will have to perform. But I believe in my ability. That's why I don't back away from any challenge.

"I still have a number of years of good cricket in me. The support I receive from my family and friends also helps a lot. I believe one should work hard to get what you want. After I was selected for Pakistan's Under-19 team, I bowled on my own for three hours a day. That's where my accuracy comes from."

[Amir]

"I have learnt that patience is important; patience when you bowl and also in how you handle life,"

Clearly you weren't patient enough. Just admit you resent our board and move on. Rather than say "as a boy I dremaed to play at the highest level"....yeah maybe you did....but never in colours other than Pakistan. Good try though to make it seem like you actually do care for playing for South Africa. Pietersen v2.

[Little Master]

Clearly you weren't patient enough. Just admit you resent our board and move on. Rather than say "as a boy I dremaed to play at the highest level"....yeah maybe you did....but never in colours other than Pakistan. Good try though to make it seem like you actually do care for playing for South Africa. Pietersen v2.
Exactly, besides Pietersen's mom was English as in he had a blood relation, Tahir just married a South African and all of a sudden his nationality has changed.

[khan-92]

http://content-www.cricinfo.com/southafrica/content/story/376090.html

Cricinfo staff

October 30, 2008

South Africa's search for a quality spinner could end next year, when legspinner Imran Tahir, who was born in Lahore, qualifies to play for the country. Tahir, married to a South African woman, will be available to play for South Africa on April 1, 2009, and the bowler is eager to play at the "highest level".

"South Africa is now my country," Tahir said. "I'll be available for South Africa on April 1." That date will be exactly fours years since Tahir played for Pakistan A. If South Africa's selectors decide to pick Tahir, who plays for the Titans, he could be in line for his debut during the home ODI series against Australia, which starts on April 3.

"My biggest ambition, ever since I was a boy in Pakistan, has been to play cricket at the highest level. If I can do so for South Africa, I'll give everything. I am a South African now and this is where my loyalty lies."

Tahir, 29, has taken 291 first-class wickets at an average of 25.07 and 74 List A scalps at 21.74. In the 2007-08 season, he took 31 wickets in six first-class games for the Titans and 14 in eight one-dayers at an average of 16.50 and economy-rate of 4.21. He joined Hampshire for the 2008 county season and was one of the better overseas signings: in seven Championship matches, he took 44 wickets at 16.68.

"I have learnt that patience is important; patience when you bowl and also in how you handle life," he said. "I enjoy a challenge and it will be a huge challenge to try to get into my new country's team. I realise, therefore, that much attention will be focused on me when I play for the Titans in the domestic season. I will have to perform. But I believe in my ability. That's why I don't back away from any challenge.

"I still have a number of years of good cricket in me. The support I receive from my family and friends also helps a lot. I believe one should work hard to get what you want. After I was selected for Pakistan's Under-19 team, I bowled on my own for three hours a day. That's where my accuracy comes from."

[saffer]

That'll be awesome !

And he'll get picked too because S.A will know it will work as a good gimmick to keep the game fresh. I just hope he gets a chance to play against kevin "earl grey" pieterson and clean bowls him.

[saffer]

He's very different to pieterson. He's not decouncing the fact that's he's Pakistani and making claims such as he can't even understand afrikaans anymore. If pieterson has chosen to play for england without all the posturing and tatooing and insults all south africans would wish him well. We never had ill feelings to others who went the same root. Only idiots pieterson and that noob clyde rathbone got our backs up. they owe everything to the south african system to make them the players they are and if they want to play elsewhere for more money good for them....but don't pretend your whole life until you stepped abroad din't exist.

[itduzz]

THE South Africans have spent much of the week promoting plans for a cricketing dynasty, and there are good reasons to take them seriously. Not only does the current Proteas side boast world-class talent in most departments, it will soon have at its disposal a leg spinner whom astute judges believe could prove the nation's finest slow bowler since readmission. From April 1, the South Africans will be free to call upon the services of Imran Tahir, a Lahore-born wrist spinner who replaced Shane Warne at Hampshire. Tahir has taken 297 first-class wickets at 25.27 in a career that has taken him from Pakistan, to England and, most recently, South Africa. The former Pakistan A representative is married to a South African, and counts the Rainbow Nation as his home country. Tahir caught the attention of many in England last year when, shortly after replacing Warne at the Rose Bowl, he claimed 44 wickets at 16.68 in seven matches. "I am a South African now and this is where my loyalty lies," he said recently.

http://www.smh.com.au/news/sport/cricket/oh-dear-tahir-is-on-his-way/2009/01/02/1230681746696.html

Another reason to support SA from April1 2009. :D

[AZ]

April Fool's?

[Ghoshtbuster]

This could turn out to be a real embarrassment for the Pak system, if Tahir turns out to be better than our current spinners!

But according to PP's interview, Mushtaq Ahmed rates Kaneria higher than Tahir, so the Africans shouldnt get their hopes up.

[Ghoshtbuster]

April Fool's?
No. You will know when itduzz is doing an April fools thread :)))

[AZ]

I doubt he is THAT good

[itduzz]

Tahir have a better FC record than Kaneria.

[AZ]

Kaneria has a better Test record than Tahir

[Ghoshtbuster]

Tahir have a better FC record than Kaneria.
Not really.

Danni K (http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/pakistan/content/player/40043.html)

Immy T (http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/pakistan/content/player/40618.html)

[Big Daddy]

i have seen him bowl. he bowls like mansoor amjad. cant bat for his life though.

[itduzz]

Not really.

Danni K (http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/pakistan/content/player/40043.html)

Immy T (http://content-uk.cricinfo.com/pakistan/content/player/40618.html)

Tahir avg is better than kaneria.....so hes better :batman:

[AZ]

yes 52 matches as compared to 120...Bravo!

[Sheikh_Ji]

He's bound to be better than Paul Harris

[kingusama92]

lol nice right on my birthday.. don't make fun of my b-day :)))

[Wazeeri]

From what little I have seen of Tahir, nothing about his bowling looks special but the man takes wickets. He knows how to penetrate a batsman's defences.

He has a very simple but effective technique.

I would have tried him if Kaneria doesn't perform.

[itduzz]

From what little I have seen of Tahir, nothing about his bowling looks special but the man takes wickets. He knows how to penetrate a batsman's defences.

He has a very simple but effective technique.

I would have tried him if Kaneria doesn't perform.

plus he has a very good googly...

[Pak_mystery]

But half the times Titans dont even play him,hes hardly played this season...

[dblock]

Tahir is decent and has done well both in English and South African domestic cricket - but the standard of playing spin, when most of the pitches suit quicks is as you would expect.

He is better than Harris I wouldn't say he is any better than Kaneria.

[On_the_up]

he turns the ball but his control wasnt that brilliant, I am hoping Qadir's advice will improve Kaneria as a bowler.

[Boi]

From What I Saw Of Him, I Think He Bowled Quite Well!

Got The Bowl To Turn And Got Loads Of Wickets In Enlgand!

He Is Much Better Than Harris So It Hink He Should Be Automatic Selection In The South African Test Team When He Is Eligible To Play!

[Informer]

Pakistani born Imran Tahir has always impressed me.

I watched him bowl again today. He took 2 wickets in 3 overs in a match which was called off because of rain. The wicket he took of Imran Khan was an absolute beauty. Imran Khan is considered to be the best player of spin in South Africa.

Tahir will be eligble to play for the Proteas in April 2009 and I have no doubt that the Proteas will grab him.

Imran Tahir is much better than any of the current Pakistani spinners.

I think Pakistan will regret not grabbing him before the Proteas do

[minhasuz]

Pakistani born Imran Tahir has always impressed me.

I watched him bowl again today. He took 2 wickets in 3 overs in a match which was called off because of rain. The wicket he took of Imran Khan was an absolute beauty. Imran Khan is considered to be the best player of spin in South Africa.

Tahir will be eligble to play for the Proteas in April 2009 and I have no doubt that the Proteas will grab him.

Imran Tahir is much better than any of the current Pakistani spinners.

I think Pakistan will regret not grabbing him before the Proteas do
You think he is better than Kaneria, Ajmal and/or Abdur Rehman?

[Lethal]

To tell you the truth any spinner will be better then our current bunch considering they have to contend with our wicket keeper Kamran Akmal who is a liability.

[MIG]

Tell you the truth - we also need Imran Khan...

[Lethal]

Tell you the truth - we also need Imran Khan...

Are you serious? The amount of hype us fans give to Pakistani youngsters is unbelievable. I think we need to give players like Fawad Alam chances to show what they can do but it reamins a mystery why he and others are constantly over looked.

[Informer]

You think he is better than Kaneria, Ajmal and/or Abdur Rehman?


Yes much better. The guy has a cricketing brain as well. Fantastic variety and has the ability to turn a ball on a glasstop.

[minhasuz]

Yes much better. The guy has a cricketing brain as well. Fantastic variety and has the ability to turn a ball on a glasstop.
Ohh he does, I have never seen him playing in real. But one of our problem is that once one of our player is/are gone then we start taking care of them and start to miss them such as some of ICL players

[Pak_mystery]

Well he is an excellent bowler.. I was surprised to see him in the final XI today coz he was continously being ignored by titans over the last coupl a months... Well he did bowl well today!

[Informer]

Well he is an excellent bowler.. I was surprised to see him in the final XI today coz he was continously being ignored by titans over the last coupl a months... Well he did bowl well today!

The ball that bowled Imran Khan would have bowled the best batsman in the world. The Proteas will be a real force with Imran.

[Rudi hater]

He is not better than Kaneira I can assure you. He doesn't turn half as much as Kaneira.

[Prince of Pakistan]

According to Aaqib Javed , he would PREFER Saeed Ajmal.

[rahulrulezz]

Informer.. Aren't u SouthAfrican... i thought u want ur national team to be stronger than other teams..

[Rudi hater]

Informer.. Aren't u SouthAfrican... i thought u want ur national team to be stronger than other teams..
Yeah, they can still beat India with or without a spinner. I think Nell is enough for them :))) :))) :))) ...

[lawaz]

well nevermind his performance on the field, he has to have age, status, and respect of his fellow players to be included in Pak team, remember?
as a Pak fan, I hope they consider him
as a disgruntled fan and for Tahir's sake, I hope the Proteas grab him--he'll get a fair shake there visavis in Pak

[rahulrulezz]

Yeah, they can still beat India with or without a spinner. I think Nell is enough for them :))) :))) :))) ...


HAHAHHAHA.... funny... very funny

[Pak_mystery]

The ball that bowled Imran Khan would have bowled the best batsman in the world. The Proteas will be a real force with Imran.
well i would pick imran ahead of paul 'useless' harris any day..

[Rudi hater]

HAHAHHAHA.... funny... very funny
It is funny actualy watching Indian get intimidated by Nell...lol

[Riff]

It is funny actualy watching Indian get intimidated by Nell...lol

I second that :))

[Riff]

He is not better than Kaneira I can assure you. He doesn't turn half as much as Kaneira.

Just because he might be able to turn the bowl more, doesnt mean he's better than Tahir.

For example, Some of the variations employed by Mendis do not turn a substantial lot, but it is that little deviation that bamboozles batsmen.

[EvergreenCricketer]

I second that :))


Sreesanth is not in the Indian team these days. Nell can dream.

[Informer]

Imran Tahir took another 5 wickets in an innings yesterday and increased his chances of being selected for the Proteas especially since Harris was mauled by the Aussies. Imran qualfies to play for the Proteas on 1st April 2009.

Meanwhile a another Pakistani is making a name for himself in South Africa. Faisal Siddiqi , who plays for Fish Hoek, the same team Proteas Harris played for in the Western Province domestic league has smashed 261 runs in only 163 balls and is likely to get a callup for the Cobras, the team that boasts players like Gibbs, Smith, Duminy, Kallis, Langeveldt and Philander

http://content-rsa.cricinfo.com/southafricandomestic/engine/current/match/359928.html

[Saj]

I see Imran has arrived for Hamphire after his injury problems :-

http://content.cricinfo.com/countycricket2009/engine/current/match/382890.html

[VandeMataram]

I believe Imran Tahir can bat also, i think Pak selector should have choosen Imran tahir instead of Ajmal for 20/20 cup.

He's certainly worth a try!

[abc_to_xyz]

SA deserve this player... B'cuz they are the one who discovered him....


Btw, there's no need for any spinner as Afridi is still alive...

[Gabbar Singh]

Finally Tahir gets his chance :)

http://www.cricinfo.com/rsaveng09/content/current/story/443135.html

[Fazz]

he played really well today took 4 wickets none of the batsmen could pick him, they say he should play for south africa in the winters so could that mean against us??

[chui_kadoo]

Whenever I watch him on sky sports he seems to bowl beautifully and has the batsmen in a spin. He has some very good variation. He seems to be more affective than Kaneria in the ODI format. Can anyone tell me why he has never been in the reckoning for Pakistan ? Its suprising that hes never been given a chance on the international scene

[On_the_up]

Saw a couple of his wkts today, yes the batsmen didn't have a clue. His celebrations were like a footballer scoring a goal in the cup final.

[Saurav]

good choice.first SA,then Pak if nothing works out Eng toh le hi lenge;-)

[Boi]

He's ripping through Somerset middle order in, probably, his final game for Warwickshire.

[Boi]

...And he takes a 5fer in his final appearance for Warwickshire, in the CB40 final. Brilliant spell of bowling from him.

[Awesome Anjum]

5/36 so far with three overs to go!

We will see him for South Africa in the New Year.

[Boi]

This collapse from Somerset should be looked into. I mean, 7 wickets for 23 runs?!

[IT_Khumbee]

Johannesburg - Imran Tahir, the Nashua Dolphins leg-spinner, is busy terrorising batsmen in the SuperSport Series and Kevin Pietersen believes the Pakistan-born player is world class and destined to play for South Africa

http://www.sport24.co.za/Cricket/KP-Tahir-is-world-class-20101021 :inti

[Zaheer Abbas's Fan]

he is 100x better than Harris, they must pick him.

[anakwalajinn]

They should have picked him against us :hafeez

[BoomBoomCricket]

As far as I'm concerned the former Pakistan "A" Legspinner becomes eligible to play for SA in December and therefore is available for selection in this 3 match Test series and beyond.

His first class records are phenomenal and he thoroughly deserves the opportunity at the top level, or at least get his international cap as a reward of his hard work and natural gift.

The SA spinners have not had the best of times in this current series against Pak in UAE and Paul Harris continues to have an ineffective time of it, especially.

I am optimistic of Immy's chances now that he is completely eligible, unlike in January this year where he was called up for the final Test against England but had to be withdrawn from the initial squad as he wasn't fully qualified. Now that he is, he should and could get his opportunity to have a crack in the top arena.

[Saj]

The Indians are very good players of spin and I think the South Africans will treat the Indians to a barrage of pace.

However if they do opt for spin, I think they'll opt for a defensive option, either Botha or Harris.

[jazba]

He's been eligible to play for South Africa and was in the squad earlier this year, iirc.

[BoomBoomCricket]

He's been eligible to play for South Africa and was in the squad earlier this year, iirc.

No he was not

Read the OP again

[jeetu]

It doesn't matter much. Mercenary players tends to switch sides at their convenience.

[Passion4Pakistan]

Originally Posted by Cricinfo


The last news Imran Tahir's mother had of her son was that he had been selected for South Africa. That was in January this year, when the Pakistani-born legspinner was included in the national Test side to play England. She died before word reached Lahore that he was ineligible to play for South Africa and never took to the field.

"I think that was the best present I could give her," said Tahir. "She was quite proud of what I achieved. I wish she could have seen me play more, but that's life."

Tahir didn't see much of his mother as he grew up. He has lived a nomadic lifestyle since he was 19 years old, playing cricket everywhere from his native Pakistan to the English county championship to sunny South Africa.

The last of those places stole his heart. He first travelled to the rainbow nation in January 1998, as a member of the Pakistan Under-19 World Cup team. On that trip he met Sumayya Dildar, a young woman in Durban, and fell in love. Tahir had to return to his homeland, but his heart stayed behind. Herschelle Gibbs may have us believe that old-fashioned romance is a foreign concept to cricketers, but Tahir's cross-continental relationship lasted eight years and shows unrivalled commitment.

"I had to go back to Pakistan because I was a centrally contracted player and I was captain of my state team, Lahore, but we kept in touch over the years. I called her so many times in that time that there is no phone number I know better."

In 2006, Tahir returned to South Africa, under the influence of his friend Gulam Bodi, to marry Sumayya.

"Gulam is like my brother. He told me to come for trials at the Titans franchise. I met Richard Pybus there and I found out that he had coached Pakistan. They offered me a contract so I moved to South Africa. But the main reason I came back was to marry Sumayya."

The first few months were difficult for Tahir. Along with wedding preparations he had to adjust to a new city, where public transport was almost non-existent. He relied on Bodi for wheels and more. "I travelled with him, he took me for practices, and we lived together. After I got married, I moved out and lived in one of the Titans flats, across the road from SuperSport Park."

His performances on the field showed no signs of strain; quite the contrary. In the 2007-08 season he was the most successful bowler in the first-class competition, with 31 wickets in six first-class matches at an average of 23.80. He finished sixth in the overall bowling rankings. The next season he took 32 wickets in eight matches and ended third on the table.

Tahir said the success was simply due to being happy in his surroundings. "It's a beautiful country and I've had a good experience. I have learnt a lot about my bowling here. I think I am a much better bowler than when I came to South Africa. I've just been loving it, I'm enjoying my cricket, and I've been honest with the game."

He only started to entertain thoughts of playing international cricket during the 2009 county season. He took 52 wickets in 12 matches for Hampshire, including four five-wicket hauls, and was the second highest wicket-taker. "I thought I would play for South Africa, because I had a great county season. It is one of the toughest leagues around and I was doing well." Many people were tracking Tahir's progress, including one Shane Warne.

"Warne was in London and he was going back to Australia, but he came to chat with me in the nets," Tahir said. "He gave me good tips, in a way you wouldn't expect from him. The same day, he drove back to London from Hampshire, which is an hour and a half away, and caught his flight home. That was the nicest thing that ever happened to me." Dmitri Mascarenhas, who knew Warne from the Rajasthan Royals, organised the session, and it led Tahir to think of Warne as one of the best people he had ever met.

When he returned to South Africa, Tahir found things at the Titans had changed and he was no longer their blue-eyed boy. "I wasn't getting picked for the Titans anymore. I was so disappointed because I wanted to play franchise cricket and they wanted me to play amateur cricket, which was not fair because I was getting wickets." Tahir took 60 wickets in 10 matches for Easterns, but still the Titans shut him out. "I decided just to kill the season and concentrate on getting back in the next year."

Another superb county season followed, this time with Warwickshire, the highlight of which was taking five wickets in the final of the CB40 final. Then, with a fresh mindset, he moved to his wife's hometown of Durban to start a new season with the Dolphins, under the management of Graham Ford.

"I know Fordie from Kent. He has been unbelievable," Tahir said. "He knows the game and he knows what players want. As a coach, it not about your ability, it's about how you handle players. Ability will always be there. You will be around good players and you can improve on it. Its strong management that makes players feel comfortable."

Tahir has taken 30 wickets in four first-class games this season and 10 in seven-limited overs games. His best return was a match tally of 12 scalps against his former team, the Titans, sweet revenge indeed. "It's the nature of a human that when you get neglected somewhere you want to go back and prove a point. I was very passionate about it before the game. I didn't sleep and thought if I get the ball, I can show them. I kept things very simple in the game and I got wickets."

It's that passion that Tahir promises to bring to the international game as well, if he is given the opportunity to play at that level. "I can't see myself playing anywhere else in the world. You don't know how much I want to play international cricket for South Africa." He has been told that he will become eligible in December but is not sure if his papers will be sorted out in time for the series against India. One thing is certain: South Africa are on the hunt for an attacking spinner and Tahir's record can't be ignored. Once the administration is taken care of, he has a very real chance of finally being able to live the gift he never gave to his mother.

I saw his Bowling in English County Cricket.. I never had doubts in his Talent.. Wish him all the Best with South Africa..

[cynical]

All the best Tahir!

[Cover Drive]

"I can't see myself playing anywhere else in the world. You don't know how much I want to play international cricket for South Africa."

Sound a bit over the top from Tahir. I mean everyone want to play international cricket but saying it yourself is a bit exaggeration, in my opinion..

[Passion4Pakistan]

CD you are right. But I think, Pakistan did not give him enough Chance.. He is more attacking than Danish.

[cricketindiafan]

Is he now eligible to play for SA? If he is, then the Saffers may have finally found a solution to there biggest headache of having a wicket taking spinner in tests.

Imran is a very good leg spinner. I hope he gets picked for the India series. Will be good to see him play against us instead of Paul "I-will-bowl- 6feet-outside-legstump" Harris.

[Cover Drive]

CD you are right. But I think, Pakistan did not give him enough Chance.. He is more attacking than Danish.

Honestly, if he had his trust in Allah (SWT) and would have waited for a while then he would have gotten a chance now. He is still waiting to get a clearance to play for South Africa so if he waited for his chance in Pakistan he could have been in squad for UAE tour, who knows?

At the time he was in Pakistan Danish was doing really well, its just that lately Danish performance have gone downhill.

[Proud To Be A Pakistani]

Honestly, if he had his trust in Allah (SWT) and would have waited for a while then he would have gotten a chance now. He is still waiting to get a clearance to play for South Africa so if he waited for his chance in Pakistan he could have been in squad for UAE tour, who knows?

At the time he was in Pakistan Danish was doing really well, its just that lately Danish performance have gone downhill.

Agree with it , well Danish haven't been good off late but he was in gr8 form back then .. so there was no roam for him then ... .secondly he didn't go to SA cause he was starving for cricket ... he admitted it ... it was his romance for which he went there ..... there r loads of players in the past too .. cause there were already had better players than them in the team .. they couldn't come at their full ... in the national team .. doesn't mean they move to aboard to become part of some other team .... so now its his personal issue rather than cricketing issue ... after he get cleared .. let see how long it takes for him being picked ....

[Pakprideuk]

Well imo he's a bit unloyal. Couldn't get into Pakistan team as Danish was doing well, moved to England, couldn't get into England, moved to South Africa, Australia next?

[Eagle_Eye]

Good luck to him... he has done well for himself... But I dont like this fake undying love for SA... seems a bit Like Trott playing for England.

[Geordie Ahmed]

His comments sound a bit ott BUT good luck to him - I hope he does well (unless of course when he plays against us)

[Saj]

Imran is a really nice guy.

A real gentleman. Very humble and friendly.

Last year he made a round trip of nearly 800 miles just to take part in a benefit match for a friend of his, despite being really busy with his County side.

Here's an interview we did with Imran last year :-

http://www.pakpassion.net/articles/imran_tahir_interview

[FastBowler]

Honestly, if he had his trust in Allah (SWT) and would have waited for a while then he would have gotten a chance now. He is still waiting to get a clearance to play for South Africa so if he waited for his chance in Pakistan he could have been in squad for UAE tour, who knows?

At the time he was in Pakistan Danish was doing really well, its just that lately Danish performance have gone downhill.



Danish is Pakistan's fourth highest wicket-taker, I doubt this guy could replace him. In Test matches, don't you have to have patience as a spinner to do well? If his character is anything to go by, scampering off to South Africa cuz he wasn't picked for Pakistan doesn't show that. If he's not good enough he'll run off somewhere else, anywhere he can play cricket doesn't matter who its for.

[ElRaja]

i support him fully, its not that he has done this on a whim, he has played in SA so he can qualify, long enough to gain residency, this is a big commitment, kudos to him and i hope to does well against all but pak.

given all the controversy that surrounds pak cricket i am not surprised that a lot of professionals lose heart. They are human after all and have aspirations in life.

[FastBowler]

given all the controversy that surrounds pak cricket i am not surprised that a lot of professionals lose heart. They are human after all and have aspirations in life.



so do mercenaries and bounty hunters

[1137moiz]

some really over-the-top reactions here (cough Fastbowler cough cough). I've followed this guy's career from his U-19 WC days and he's consistently performed without getting an opportunity. At the end of the day it's his personal decision to go to RSA, and since he hasn't represented Pakistan at senior international level he has every right to.

Btw his remarks do seem a bit exaggerated

[FastBowler]

some really over-the-top reactions here (cough Fastbowler cough cough). I've followed this guy's career from his U-19 WC days and he's consistently performed without getting an opportunity. At the end of the day it's his personal decision to go to RSA, and since he hasn't represented Pakistan at senior international level he has every right to.



Get lost

[1137moiz]

Get lost

abay sharif ban ja :D

[Cobra]

top lad this guy. met him in Birmingham UK whilst he was having a meal with his wife.

[Friend786]

Nashua Dolphins legspinner Imran Tahir was granted South African citizenship by naturalisation on Friday and is thus eligible to play for the Proteas with immediate effect.

Imran, who was born in Pakistan, has also fulfilled the International Cricket Council’s regulations to represent his new country, not having represented the country of his birth at any level for more than four years.

The 31-year-old Tahir has taken more than 530 first-class wickets in 127 matches and is one of the leading wicket-takers in South Africa’s various domestic competitions.

Gerald Majola, Cricket South Africa (CSA) CEO, said: “Imran Tahir, the former Pakistan 'A' team legspinner, is now fully eligible to play cricket for South Africa following the decision by the South African Government to grant him permanent residency.

“He also qualifies in terms of the International Cricket Council regulations to be eligible to play for South Africa after his four-year break between last playing for Pakistan 'A' and playing in South Africa for this period.

“Imran has made South Africa his home and has been married for some time to a South African. He has been a leading wicket-taker in the top South African domestic competitions for the past few seasons and is highly respected by both his colleagues and his opponents.

“He certainly becomes a contender for selection to the Proteas squad now that he has met all the Government, ICC and CSA regulations regarding his new nationality.”

http://supersport.com/cricket/domestic-cricket/news/110101/Imran_Tahir_granted_SA_citizenship

[Walid from Bangladesh]

How many FC matches he played in Pakistan? Is he really a good spinner? 127 FC matches means quiet exprienced!

[Walid from Bangladesh]

Khawja>Tahir?

[BoomBoomCricket]

Available for selection in the ODI Series and World Cup

Wish him well

He thoroughly deserves his international cap

Probably one of the best bowlers going that has not played international cricket yet

I personally rate him really highly

So damn effective with his lethal variation

A big match winner who can turn the tables with his mystery

[Pak4Ev3r]

Whos this kid

[BoomBoomCricket]

Whos this kid

A top class bowler who has played for more then 10 domestic sides since his debut in 1996

He has notched up over 500 First Class Wickets

Former Pakistan "A" and Pakistan U19 bowler who married a South African Women and settled in South Africa

He is no kid

He is 31

[sunnykhan]

Indians are great players of spin bowling. I don't think tahir will be lethal against them. In fact there are chances that he will get some phainty from them.

[Mobashir]

It's sad that he has been cleared after the Test series agaisnt India...

[Jo_Don]

Imran Tahir, the legspinner who was recently granted South African citizenship, has been included in the squad for the ODI series against India. Jacques Kallis was not considered for selection because of the side strain he sustained during the Test series, while Mark Boucher remains out of South Africa's limited-overs plans.

Tahir is Pakistani by origin and was granted citizenship by naturalisation on New Year's Day. Tahir also fulfilled the ICC's regulations for representing his new country, having not played for the country of his birth at any level for more than four years.

ODI squad: Graeme Smith, Hashim Amla, Johan Botha, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Faf du Plessis, Colin Ingram, David Miller, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Alviro Petersen, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir, Lonwabo Tsotsobe.

More to follow ...

http://www.espncricinfo.com/south-africa-v-india-2010/content/current/story/495659.html

Finally :D All the best to Tahir!

[Mian Hassan]

He is gonna google the indian batsman

[IAJ]

Congratulations! :)

PCB, tum loug beth key apni kismat kou rou ab!

[Amjid Javed]

Good luck to him!

[sakss]

hope hes better than harris....
saffers are struggling to find a decent spinner

[cricket_fever]

inshallah he will do well!!!

south africans have lost enough of their players to other countries, they now really deserve some great imports :P

[Newton_fan]

In the current FC match he is playing Took 4 wickets for 90 runs and still the innings not over.

[BoomBoomCricket]

South Africa ODI squad: Graeme Smith (capt), Hashim Amla, Johan Botha, AB de Villiers (wk), JP Duminy, Faf du Plessis, Colin Ingram, David Miller, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Robin Petersen, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir, Lonwabo Tsotsobe

http://www.espncricinfo.com/south-africa-v-india-2010/content/current/story/495659.html

:) :) :)

As you can tell, I really rate this guy

[cricket_fever]

In the current FC match he is playing Took 4 wickets for 90 runs and still the innings not over.

took 6 finally

http://www.espncricinfo.com/rsadomestic-2010/engine/current/match/469430.html

[emclub]

I think he's better than Kaneria why PCB never gave him a chance?

[cricket_fever]

I think he's better than Kaneria why PCB never gave him a chance?

all pak can do now if he does turn out to be better than kaneria on international stage is sit and cry

[srh]

SA got very lucky.

[farazaidi]

Atleast SA will now have a spinner with clean action !

[hussnainn]

Good Luck to him... May Allah give him success..

[Karachi]

Fawad Alam, Khalid Latif and Khurrum Manzoor should try for South African. I think they will be better chance playing for South African than Pakistan.

[emclub]

Fawad Alam, Khalid Latif and Khurrum Manzoor should try for South African. I think they will be better chance playing for South African than Pakistan.

Are you kidding? SA has better players than these 3.......Players like KP and Trott cant get in SA team and you are talkin about these 3

[BoomBoomCricket]

Thread should be merged

[BoomBoomCricket]

http://www.pakpassion.net/ppforum/showthread.php?t=112148

Merge it MODS :)

[1137moiz]

Fawad Alam, Khalid Latif and Khurrum Manzoor should try for South African. I think they will be better chance playing for South African than Pakistan.

:facepalm: You're not a Karachi supremacist are you?

(Though for the record I'm a fan of all three youngsta beauties, Latif for one-days and the other two for Tests)

[in_cutter]

Fawad Alam, Khalid Latif and Khurrum Manzoor should try for South African. I think they will be better chance playing for South African than Pakistan.

Lol

[BoomBoomCricket]

Fawad Alam, Khalid Latif and Khurrum Manzoor should try for South African. I think they will be better chance playing for South African than Pakistan.

hahahahahahahahahahahha :))) :)))

[BoomBoomCricket]

Come On Immy :D

spin'em out!!!

;-)

[Sledger]

He should have played in the test series. I'm not sure who Paul Harris has personal photos of but he is one of the most pathetic specialist 'spinners' I've seen for a long time.

[gsivak]

It should be a good contest. Imran and Ashwin two new bowlers. will be interesting to see how they both fare. I have a soft spot for Ashwin as he is from my hometown....hope to see him do well.

[QuarterBack]

It should be a good contest. Imran and Ashwin two new bowlers. will be interesting to see how they both fare. I have a soft spot for Ashwin as he is from my hometown....hope to see him do well.

Same here, he is also my batch mate from college... So will be extra nice to see him excel on the big stage...

[gsivak]

Same here, he is also my batch mate from college... So will be extra nice to see him excel on the big stage...

I bet!!! He has been developing quite nicely as a bowler. Hopefully he will do something with the bat too, otherwise can't see him playing in XI for the world cup. No way will Dhoni give him a shot before Bhajji and Dhoni will want to play 3 seamers.

[Seen Sheen]

He should have played in the test series. I'm not sure who Paul Harris has personal photos of but he is one of the most pathetic specialist 'spinners' I've seen for a long time.

:)),:)) Most probably of his captain...

[DeadlyVenom]

On paper he is a better bowler than Kaneria. We should have given him a go at some point

[Newton_fan]

Another Pak born to Play for other Country, Don't not know if he is first Pakistani to play for SA. Imran going to Debut Tomorrow against India. Difficult Debut as he is going to play against the best players of Spin. Let see how he performs. http://i51.tinypic.com/4im1vo.png

Domestic Stats

FA career: 128 Matches 547 wickets @Ave. of 24.93
List A career: 96 Matches 140 wickets @Ave. of 22.74
T20 career: 37 Matches 40 wickets @Ave. of 21.70


Note : Smiley made by Newton_fan. And i hope AZ will make it Official once he Debut.

[mastermind_quad]

he can get Sachin's wkt easily ;-)....another debutant

[Romali_rotti]

I expect to see a good ol fashion Whooping coming Tahir's way..

[MIG]

I expect to see a good ol fashion Whooping coming Tahir's way..

He must play first to qualify for that honour.:gul

[anakwalajinn]

Salam. Making debut against India, can not get better than that :D

[cricket_fever]

i really hope he does well!!! cant wait to see him perform!!! but according to cricinfo, they think he might not be debuting in the first game ......

[MIG]

Think the whole Pakistani nation will unite behind Tahir... call it a hunch.

[BoomBoomCricket]

Good luck Immy bhai and best wishes..........

I know his brother and he is really excited about the prospects of him playing international cricket

I have always rated and backed this guy since 2008

He has all the tricks and variations to trouble top class players

Could become a real gem for RSA

They are lucky to have him

Should be interesting to see how he fares...I am backing him all the way

[Rana]

Go on Tahir! Make us proud!

[BoomBoomCricket]

Shane Warne said he has the best lethal googly going

Abdul Qadir also rated him highly in the past

Big loss for Pakistan, big gain for SA

[Afridirocks]

i doubt he will make his debut tomorrow

johan botha will play as a spinner i think

[Rana]

i doubt he will make his debut tomorrow

johan botha will play as a spinner i think

No RSA spinner is better than an Asian spinner at international level.

[Ryankhan]

No RSA spinner is better than an Asian spinner at international level.

Totally agree with you and its sad to see tahir couldnt play for Pak. best of luck buddy and i hope u get success on your debut :)

[W63L35]

Imran Tahir is not in 30 players annouced for the WC.... now if he does play vs India and performs well, will ICC allow Sout Africa to to select a player from outside the 30 announced? :13:

[Newton_fan]

Not 2marrow but he surely will Debut in this series. The Thread is not only for his 1 ODI performance

[Impala_KaifTamasha]

Really hope he bowls well

[Random Aussie]

No RSA spinner is better than an Asian spinner at international level.

Botha is not a spinner he is javelin thrower.

[talha3]

Botha is not a spinner he is javelin thrower.

:)))

[srh]

He probably will not make debut tomorrow.

[Mobashir]

According to cricinfo he is not making hs debut for sure...
But i hope he plays and plays well...

[*sallu*]

Won't get more than a game or 2.