'Nobody replied to me, they are thinking I am worthless' - Imran Tahir reveals Graeme Smith had promised to include him in T20 WC squad

Veteran leg-spinner Imran Tahir has been left heartbroken after not being picked in South Africa’s squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2021. Cricket South Africa (CSA) announced the 15-man contingent on Thursday (September) and there were several notable absentees. Tahir was among them and the leg-spinner expressed his pain in an interaction. Notably, the 42-year-old revealed Graeme Smith, Cricket South Africa’s director, promised to pick him in the squad.

However, that didn’t happen as Tahir was sidelined alongside former skipper Faf du Plessis and Chris Morris. For the unversed, Tahir hasn’t played for South Africa after retiring from the 50-over format after the 2019 World Cup. However, he remained available for T20Is and continued plying his trade in different T20 competitions. With the Proteas side not having several potent spin options, Tahir’s inclusion was on the cards.

I am working hard and can you see my performances: Imran Tahir

However, the selectors didn’t consider the 42-year-old. Speaking of his exclusion, Tahir said Graeme Smith didn’t keep his promise that he made last year. “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. I am ready,“ Tahir was quoted as saying by IOL.

“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,” he added.

The leggie also asserted his former teammate Mark Boucher hasn’t contacted him once after becoming South Africa’s head coach. “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 10 years, I think I deserve a little more respect than these guys thinking I’m worthless.”