Imran Tahir is South Africa's second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is with 61 wickets at an average of 14.08 and an economy rate of 6.56.
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South African veteran Imran Tahir has expressed the pain that he is experiencing after being not selected in South Africa’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Tahir was omitted along with former captain Faf du Plessis and all-rounder Chris Morris, from the 15-man Proteas squad for the event set to be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman. The spinner has not been called up to the South African team since his retirement from the 50-over format following the conclusion of the 2019 World Cup.
“I want to tell the people of South Africa my story because I played with my heart. Whether people accept me as a South African or not, I am South African. My wife is South African and my family is South African,“ said Tahir as quoted by iol.co.za.
“My child is born in South Africa, so it’s home to me. I have always wanted to win a World Cup for South Africa to say thank you for the opportunity this country has given me, so I am not planning on retiring. I am going to play until 50 if I have to,” he added.
Tahir is South Africa’s second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is with 61 wickets at an average of 14.08 and an economy rate of 6.56. However, the 42-year-old did not get included in the squad for the T20 World Cup 2021, despite the same being promised by South Africa’s Director of Cricket Graeme Smith.
“I am not feeling great that I am not in the squad. Last year Graeme Smith spoke to me and said I want you to play in the World Cup, which was in Australia. I said obviously I am available and excited and honoured because you give me respect. Am ready. I am working hard and can you see my performances in all these leagues. He said that’s why he wants me. He also said he was going to speak to a few other guys like AB (de Villiers) and Faf (du Plessis). They put me on the Proteas group and everything, but then nobody contacted me,” said Tahir.
“After a few months I texted Smith and Boucher and nobody replied to me. Since Boucher has become coach he has not contacted me once to tell me what his plans are. It’s really sad man. I served the country for a 10 years, I think I deserve a little more respect than these guys thinking I’m worthless,” he added.
Tahir even attempted to contact national limited-overs captain Temba Bavuma, with the objective of setting up some form of communication.
“I spoke to Temba and he said he has a meeting with Boucher the following week. Temba came back to me with a message from Boucher that I must speak to Victor. I again tried to reach him (Mpitsang) and he tried to call me on my WhatsApp number, but he didn’t realise WhatsApp doesn’t work in Dubai. Victor eventually spoke to me and said he will let me know. But then after a couple of months again I heard nothing,” he concluded.
