It’s special being No1, says spin ace Tahir ... and catching up with Sonny Bill

IMRAN Tahir has travelled a winding road to be an international cricket superstar. Now he sees a long straight in front of him, having attained the world No 1 ranking as a bowler in both T20 and ODI cricket.

Speaking yesterday in Auckland for the first time since moving to the summit of both limited-overs formats, the charismatic leg-spinner revealed just how much the accolade means to him.

“It is very special. When I started playing cricket I never thought I would one day be the number one bowler in the world. It’s just all the hard work I’ve done,” Tahir said at Eden Park before South Africa’s one-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 to the team because it’s an honour to be playing for South Africa.”

Considering Tahir’s lofty status in both white-ball formats, it is surprising that the 37-year-old was released by his Indian Premier League franchise, the Delhi Daredevils, last season. However, with the IPL auction next week, the chance of being snapped up on an even more lucrative contract is an enticing prospect 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.

Tahir is also 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 tourists have enjoyed in the Land of the Long White Cloud.

“It was one of the biggest games of my life. And credit to New Zealand. 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.”

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 lots of respect for him, it was lovely to see him again. I wish I could have muscles like him.

“I’m pleased and happy with what he has achieved. He’s just an unbelievable guy ... a wonderful human being.”