By Ben Kunicki BBC Sport Online

During the recent one-day series in South Africa, at least one of the rampant Australians didn't have everything his own way.

Ian Harvey failed to stamp his authority after suffering a hamstring injury in the first match of the series, and left the tour with his place under threat.

For a man regarded by Steve Waugh as one of the best death bowlers in the shorter form of the game it was a chastening experience.

After performing creditably in the opener, taking three for 38, Harvey went on to record figures of one for 41 from eight overs; nought for 54 from 10; one for 64 from nine and nought for 35 from just four.

Soothing experience

With the bat, Harvey only managed to break into double figures once.

However, back with Gloucestershire for a fourth season, Harvey has found the return to county cricket a soothing experience as, once again, he has proved his mastery of the one-day arts.

Harvey endured a tough time in South Africa

At Gloucestershire though, he seems to have found a home from home and become the driving force behind the county's one-day success over recent years.

When he was hired in 1999, the move was regarded as a snub to long-term Gloucestershire servant Courtney Walsh.

At the time new coach John Bracewell had expressed a preference for an overseas player who would fit into the team and complement the existing set-up.

Important presence

He wanted to avoid a star name who would dominate and allow others to rely on his performances, frustrating the coach's attempt to improve the rest of the staff.

However, injuries to key bowlers over the past season have meant that Harvey's presence is more important than ever.

Despite Jon Lewis' return to the side, Harvey has been the dominant force in a Gloucestershire team that has managed four wins out of five.

After Harvey's 18 wickets in the competition, Lewis and James Averis are the next best performers with just seven apiece.

Seen as something of a bits-and-pieces cricketer for both Australia and Victoria, where he has been regarded as more of batsman, Harvey's bowling comes alive in England.

Harvey is the leading B&H Cup wicket-taker

His subtle changes in pace, the use of off-cutters and other special deliveries have even more of an impact in English conditions, especially in spring.

The lack of bounce and pace evident at this time of year, combined with a green tinge on the surface allows Harvey to prosper in a way not possible on the hard pitches of South Africa.

The player himself will be well aware that eye-catching performances now may stave off any challenge from Shane Watson for the one-day series against Pakistan in June.

So in some ways, Harvey excellent early season form could have a sting in the tail for Gloucestershire.

However, if they are to retain any of the trophies they relinquished in a barren 2001, then Harvey is likely to be at the heart of their success.