England fast bowler Stephen Harmison has always been a little erratic but if he does not find his rhythm in the next couple of days he might find himself carrying the drinks in Hamilton next week.
Harmison took one for 59 from 12 overs in a wayward spell during day one of a three-day first-class match against the New Zealand Invitation XI at the University Oval yesterday.
With more than 200 test scalps Harmison is a crucial cog in the England machinery, but the big paceman has been struggling with his line and is by no means a certainty for the side which will play New Zealand in Hamilton on March 5.
‘‘Places are still up for grabs in the bowling department,'' England coach Peter Moores said.
‘‘I thought he [Harmison] bowled better [yesterday], but he still wouldn't be where he wants to be.
‘‘Physically he has done the work, so he is physically fit. But I think Steve will admit that he needs to bowl and get himself into a rhythm.
‘‘The challenge for him is to make the batter play, because he gets that bounce and he needs the batsmen to play to bring that slip cordon into play.''
Back-up bowler Chris Tremlett was due to leave New Zealand on Tuesday - the day before the first test begins - but is likely to remain in the country until Harmison finds his form and Ryan Sidebottom recovers from his hamstring injury.
‘‘While we've still got injuries and niggles in our bowlers, we are going to keep Tremlett on, because it is a long way to ship someone in, obviously.''
England slumped to 131 all out on a lively pitch but failed to adjust to the seaming conditions. In reply the New Zealand Invitation XI reached 177 for four by stumps and dominated the day's play.
And while it was bad toss to lose, Moores was quick to lay the blame with his players.
‘‘I thought, in general, we played a little loose and paid the penalty for it.
‘‘When the ball seams around you've got to be able to leave well and play late.''
