Simon Harmer says he didn’t expect to tour Pakistan with the Proteas this month despite having made contact with coach Shukri Conrad.

The spinner revealed that while he reached out to Conrad in July – offering his services as he prepared to rejoin the Titans – he didn’t imagine it would lead to an immediate Test recall.

“I was surprised; I wasn’t expecting to be on the Pakistan tour,” Harmer told the Sunday Times.

The 36-year-old played the last of his 10 Tests for South Africa against the West Indies two-and-a-half years ago – Conrad’s second match in charge.

His return comes after Keshav Maharaj was ruled out of the first Test against Pakistan in Lahore, which starts on 12 October, with a groin injury.

“It’s just the way professional sport is … right time, right place. Kesh gets injured, and I get selected, so I suppose the rest is up to me. I have to prove my worth and hopefully contribute significantly to the team’s success. Two or three wickets won’t cut the mustard.”

DE KOCK: Playing for Proteas broke me

Harmer, who made his debut in 2015, believes he still has something to offer and hopes to make the most of this opportunity.

“You always want to be competing on the biggest stage. I’ve done well in domestic and county cricket, but international cricket is where you want to compete — against the best players in different conditions.

“I’ve taken a lot of four-wicket hauls in Test cricket. That’s always bothered me – never taking a five-for, never outright winning the game for the team.

“If I get another opportunity, I want to be that guy, to put in match-winning performances.”