Former England captain Michael Atherton has blasted the England selectors for recalling fast bowler Stephen Harmison for the third Test against South Africa, saying it sends a "terrible message".
Durham quick Harmison has been recalled to liven up an attack that couldn't prevent South Africa piling up over 500 at Headingley, where the Proteas won the second Test by 10 wickets to go 1-0 up in the four-match series after a draw at Lord's.
Harmison's return to a 13-man squad, together with that of fit-again left-arm pace bowler Ryan Sidebottom, comes after shock Headingley debutant Darren Pattinson, born in Grimsby but brought up in Australia, and long-time back-up paceman Chris Tremlett were both omitted.
In the process Harmison has leapfrogged fellow 2005 Ashes winning bowlers Matthew Hoggard and Simon Jones, who remain in international exile. Harmison was dropped after the first Test defeat away to New Zealand in March and the latter part of his England career was characterised by repeated criticisms of his performance and attitude. And for all his fine form for Durham this season, former opening batsman Atherton is not convinced Harmison has answered those criticisms.