Steve Harmison has been given permission to link up late with England's Test squad in New Zealand as his wife is due to give birth.

The Durham fast bowler was due to arrive in New Zealand later today with the tourists' other specialist Test players to begin preparations for the three-Test series which starts on March 4.

Harmison's wife Hayley's due date was last weekend, and with the first match preparation for the Test campaign not taking place until February 25, extending his time at home still allows a few days of acclimatisation upon arrival.

England play two warm-up contests against Otago in Dunedin ahead of the three-match series, which begins in Hamilton on March 5.

Harmison has suffered from homesickness throughout his career but showed his desire to play for England by proving his fitness with a spell in South African domestic cricket last autumn.

The 29-year-old was also impressive in the oppressive conditions in Sri Lanka before Christmas.

Hugh Morris, the England Cricket Board manager, confirmed: "It is anticipated that he will now join the Test squad in New Zealand in the early part of next week."

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