Steve Harmison denied his return to England's one-day team is motivated by financial reasons.

Harmison, 29, reversed his decision to retire from one-day internationals last Thursday and marked his return by taking two wickets in each of England's wins against South Africa at Headingley and Trent Bridge.

Cynics have suggested Harmison opted to come back to the side to play in the Stanford Series due to begin in October but the Durham star is adamant this is not the case.

"Everyone is talking about it saying he has come back for the money, but I have come back for cricketing," he said. "It feels like I've been criticised for everything, even for changing my socks."

"It's not up to me if I play in the Stanford series. I made my feelings clear to the coach and captain."

Harmison claimed family issues were among the reasons why he decided to retire in 2006 and admitted only returning after speaking to his wife and children.

"Things have got a bit more stable with the family issues now. There probably have been 10, 12 or 15 players that have been in the same boat and they haven't been as honest as I have been about it," said Harmison.

Harmison also gave his backing to Kevin Pietersen, who has not lost a match since being appointed as England skipper but acknowledges the team can't take a series victory against South Africa for granted.

"He (Pietersen) seems to have the Midas touch and long may that continue. The performance last week was obviously comprehensive from our point of view and disappointing from theirs but they are going to come back at us."

England can seal victory in the five-match series with a win at the Oval on Friday.