Harmison hit by shin problem

Steve Harmison's chances of pushing for an England recall have been hit after he picked up a shin problem with concerns it could develop into a stress fracture.

He is being sent to see a specialist having had similar problems earlier in his career and has certainly been ruled out of Durham's remaining Friends Provident Trophy matches after missing the defeat against Yorkshire on Wednesday.

Harmison was left out of the England squad to face West Indies after a disappointing winter where he failed to impress in India or West Indies. He played in two Tests in the Caribbean, managing four wickets at 36.75 and it has been made clear by Geoff Miller what is expected of him as a strike bowler.

However, his form this season has been unconvincing and since taking 4 for 76 in the opening Championship match against Yorkshire he has collected just four wickets.