Simon Harmer still gunning for a playoff spot with Durban Super Giants
Despite a challenging SA20 season with only two wins from nine matches and three no results, Simon Harmer remains optimistic about Durban Super Giants’ playoff chances as they prepare for their final group game against Paarl Royals. Picture: Gerhard Duraan / Sportzpics for SA20
Image: Gerhard Duraan / Sportzpics for SA20
With two wins from nine matches, it’s quite incredible that Durban Super Giants (DSG) still have a chance of making the SA20 playoffs, and spinner Simon Harmer remains optimistic about his side’s chances.
In their defence, DSG have suffered three no results during their campaign, which has seriously dented their chances.
With one group game remaining, all is not lost as DSG take on Paarl Royals at Kingsmead on Saturday.
Weather permitting, DSG will hope to bag a full haul of points and hope other results go in their favour as they aim to improve from fifth to inside the top four to book their playoffs spot.
DSG’s Struggles in SA20: Weather Disruptions and Accountability
“I think it's been frustrating because it's felt very stop-start. The weather hasn't really played its part,” Harmer told SportsBoom.co.za.
“We’ve played, then had a rain-out, then played again. When you’re trying to build momentum in a short tournament like this, that’s tough.”
Despite results not going their way as they’ve lost four and won just two, there would be no shying away from their lacklustre display so far.
“We’ve got to take responsibility. We’ve had opportunities to win games when we’ve played, and we haven’t taken them,” said Harmer.
In fact, Harmer was not originally part of the DSG squad but was drafted in as a replacement for Sunil Narine, who was unable to make the start of the SA20 in December.
“After the India tour, Lance Klusener messaged me and asked if I was keen to come on board as a replacement. Even if it was just three games, I was very keen. I’ve always enjoyed the SA20,” said Harmer, who has played five games this season so far.
“They [overseas players] bring a lot of clout. The crowd wants to see the best players in the world. That experience in the change room is invaluable, helping batters, helping bowlers, and bringing calmness under pressure.”