Captain Faf du Plessis believes spinner Simon Harmer would have been a valuable resource during the Proteas’ recent Test series against India.

The Proteas were trounced in Visakhapatnam, Pune and Ranchi, giving India a resounding 3-0 series win.

The visitors’ squad featured specialist spinners Dane Piedt, Senuran Muthusamy, Keshav Maharaj and George Linde.

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Harmer, meanwhile, has forged a successful career with Essex in English county cricket since signing a Kolpak contract four years ago. He was last year’s leading wicket-taker in all first-class cricket around the world and practised with England during this year’s Ashes series.

The 30-year-old Harmer was also the leading wicket-taker in the 2019 County Championship Division one with 83 in 14 matches.

‘It’s sad for South African cricket not having the option of picking some of its best players. Harmer has had an unbelievable season for Essex. It would’ve been great to say, “He’s done well overseas, let’s bring him with us on tour.” Maybe it will be better with Brexit,’ said Du Plessis.

‘Players will probably still go play in England as overseas players, but at least you can play for your country still. At the moment, we don’t get the option of picking all of the best players.’

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