JOHANNESBURG: Off-spinner Simon Harmer was on Wednesday named in the South African squad for two Tests in New Zealand next month, ending a six-year absence from national team.

The 32-year-old played the most recent of his five Tests against India in November 2015 before signing a Kolpak contract with English county Essex.

Following the end of the Kolpak system in December 2020, Harmer became eligible for selection for South Africa again.

Both Tests will be played at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch. The first Test starts on Feb 17 and the second on Feb 25.

Squad: Dean Elgar (captain), Temba Bavuma, Sarel Erwee, Simon Harmer, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Keegan Petersen, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Lutho Sipamla, Glenton Stuurman, Rassie van der Dussen, Kyle Verreynne (wicket-keeper).

Published in Dawn, January 27th, 2022