Warwickshire were quick to capitalise on Paul Harris’ disappointment at being overlooked for South Africa’s tour to Sri Lanka. The 27-year-old slow left-armer took 49 wickets for Titans last winter but, to the surprise of many South African observers, did not make the cut for the tour.

His decision to spend the summer playing club cricket for Fleetwood in the Northern League proved blessed. Warwickshire needed to sign an experienced slow bowler to fill the gap left by Daniel Vettori and Harris was signed on an 18-month contract after impressing during trials at Edgbaston. “It was the biggest decision that I have had to make,” Harris says. “I needed a bit of time to think it through and make absolutely sure that I was making the right decision. I was disappointed with not being picked by South Africa but coming to play county cricket has nothing to do with proving anything to South Africa. I have signed for Warwickshire because I want to do well for them.” Harris was the only player for the county to emerge with credit from an innings defeat by Yorkshire at Scarborough where he took 5 for 134 and made 32 in a last-wicket stand of 79 with Heath Streak.

The Wisden Cricketer, Paul Bolton