CAPE TOWN – Imran Tahir’s winding road to being an international cricket superstar has finally found its ultimate pit stop: the world number one ranking in both T20 and ODI cricket.
Speaking on Thursday morning in Auckland for the first time since moving to the bowlers’ summit of both limited-overs formats, the charismatic leg-spinner revealed just how much the accolade actually means to him.
"I think it is very special. When I started playing cricket I never thought I would one day be the number one bowler in the world. I think it's just all the hard work I've done," Tahir told the media at Eden Park ahead of South Africa's once-off T20 International against the Black Caps.
"I'm excited about it. There are a lot of good bowlers in the world, being number one is a really good achievement. I am grateful for the team I play for because it’s an honour to be playing for South Africa. I'm working really hard, and as long as I'm doing well for the team, and they're happy then I'm doing my job."
Considering Tahir's lofty status in both white-ball formats it is surprising though that the 37-year-old was released by his Indian Premier League franchise, the Delhi Darevils, last season.
However, with the IPL auction fast approaching next week, the chance of being snapped on an even more lucrative contract is enticing for Tahir. The veteran, though, does not want to be distracted with “auction talk” while South Africa are preparing for not only the T20 but an all-important ODI series against a strong New Zealand side.
"I think it's at the back of my mind, but what’s more important for me is that I have another opportunity to play for South Africa," Tahir said.
"Everyone is aware of the IPL auction. I've been released, so I'm in the auction. I have nothing to lose. I might get it and I might not get it. But I think if I keep winning games for South Africa that's more important because then I will probably get in somewhere."
Tahir is equally not focusing too much on South Africa’s emotionally-draining 2015 World Cup semi-final defeat to the Black Caps the last time the Proteas played at the famed stadium. The veteran prefers to focus on happier times the tourist enjoyed in the Land of the Long White cloud.
"It was one of the biggest games of my life. And credit to New Zealand for they played really well," Tahir said. "But I also remember coming here (in 2012) and beating them 3-0 (in the ODI series). We’re not disrespecting them. They are always very tough opposition. They just beat Australia, so they have lots of confidence. It’s going to be a great challenge."
Visiting New Zealand is also an opportunity for Tahir and his Proteas teammates to catch up with their good friend, All Blacks superstar, Sonny Bill Williams.
"Every time we are here Sonny always comes to see us," Tahir said.
"He is a very kind man and I have lot of respect for him, it was lovely to see him again. I wish I could have muscles like him.
"I'm really pleased and happy with what he has achieved in his life. He's just an unbelievable guy ... a wonderful human being."
Always good catching up with the brothers when In town. pic.twitter.com/QJF8CKJCGZ
— Sonny Bill Williams (@SonnyBWilliams) February 13, 2017