Chris Zinzan Harris, a former New Zealand cricketer, was a cult hero in the world of cricket. Known for his versatile batting skills and nagging slow-medium wobblers, Harris became one of the most effective allround limited-overs cricketers during his playing days.
Born on September 4, 1968, in Christchurch, New Zealand, Harris developed a passion for cricket from an early age. Following in the footsteps of his father, Zin Harris, who was also an international cricketer, Harris displayed exceptional skills that would later make him a prominent figure in New Zealand cricket.
Harris had an outstanding ability to score runs all around the wicket. His meticulous shot selection and accurate placement of the ball allowed him to accumulate runs consistently, establishing himself as New Zealand’s answer to Michael Bevan. With an impressive record of 62 not-outs in one-day cricket, Harris demonstrated his proficiency in closing out an innings.
In addition to his batting prowess, Harris possessed an uncanny bowling style that perfectly suited the shorter format of the game. His gentle medium-pace deliveries forced batsmen to work hard, while his subtle changes in pace and ability to cut the ball off the wicket made him a formidable bowler. Harris’s impressive fielding skills, particularly in the inner circle and covers, further enhanced his reputation as an allrounder.
During late 1997, Harris experienced a purple patch with the bat, going 19 consecutive innings, including eight in ODIs, without being dismissed. He also registered three half-centuries within this period. Notably, Harris played a vital role in New Zealand’s triumph at the ICC KnockOut tournament. In the final against India, he formed a crucial partnership of 122 for the sixth wicket with Chris Cairns, setting up a last-over victory.
However, despite his success in limited-overs cricket, Harris was unable to replicate his form in Test matches. In his 23 Test appearances between 1992 and 2002, he struggled with a disappointing batting average of 20.44 and an untenable bowling average of 73.12. Nevertheless, his contributions to the shorter format of the game were recognized, and he became the first New Zealand player to reach 250 ODIs in 2004.
Harris’s career was marked by longevity and consistency. Even at the age of 40, he remained an effective player for Canterbury in domestic cricket. With retirement drawing near, Harris continues to inspire young cricketers with his skill and dedication to the game.
Off the field, Harris has been enjoying a quiet life, cherishing his time with family and friends. His brother, Ben Harris, has also showcased his capabilities at the first-class level, highlighting the family’s undeniable talent.
Chris Zinzan Harris will forever be remembered as a cult hero and one of New Zealand’s most effective allround limited-overs cricketers. His versatile batting skills, nagging medium-pace bowling, and exceptional fielding abilities have left an indelible mark on the sport. Whether it was closing out an innings with the bat or bamboozling batsmen with his tricky wobblers, Harris was a true icon of New Zealand cricket.
