Biography of David Harrison

Early Life

David Harrison was born on July 30, 1981, in Newport, Monmouthshire, England. He grew up in a family that appreciated sports, which facilitated his early engagement with cricket. Harrison displayed a natural talent for the game from a young age, playing for local clubs and representing his school teams. His passion and dedication to cricket led him to join the Glamorgan County Cricket Club’s junior setup, where his skills as a right-arm fast-medium bowler and right-hand batsman began to flourish.

Cricket Journey and Debut

Harrison's rise through the ranks at Glamorgan saw him making his first-class debut in 2000 against Sussex. His impressive performances in domestic cricket soon caught the attention of selectors, and he was often praised for his pace and bounce. The years leading up to his international debut were characterized by consistent performances in county cricket, where he established himself as a reliable bowler and a valuable addition to the batting lineup, particularly in lower-order situations. His international debut came on June 19, 2001, when he was selected for England's One Day International (ODI) against the West Indies. Although he faced stiff competition for a spot in a team filled with talented players, Harrison's determination and skill stood out.

Key Milestones and Achievements

During his career, David Harrison had several standout performances. One of the key milestones in his ODI career was his first five-wicket haul, which he achieved against Zimbabwe in early 2002. This performance not only showcased his potential as a frontline bowler but also placed him firmly in the minds of the selectors for future international assignments. Harrison's performances in the domestic circuit were equally commendable. In 2004, he played a pivotal role in Glamorgan's run to the EDF Energy Twenty20 Cup Finals. His left-arm pace bowling and hitting capabilities helped the team secure crucial victories, enhancing his reputation as a match-winner. Despite his promising beginning, Harrison's international career was hampered by injuries and stiff competition, which limited his appearances for the national team. However, his dedication to the game and his performances at the county level cemented his legacy within Glamorgan and the English domestic circuit.

Records and Statistics

David Harrison's career statistics reflect his dedication and talent, even if his international appearances were limited. Below are the statistics from his cricketing career:

International Career Stats

One Day Internationals (ODIs)

- Matches: 10 - Innings: 10 - Runs Scored: 70 - Batting Average: 7.77 - Highest Score: 22 - Wickets Taken: 14 - Bowling Average: 34.85 - Best Bowling Figures: 5/43

First-Class Matches

- Matches: 96 - Innings: 128 - Runs Scored: 3,500 - Batting Average: 30.71 - Highest Score: 145 - Wickets Taken: 350 - Bowling Average: 24.78 - Best Bowling Figures: 7/49

List A Matches

- Matches: 143 - Innings: 143 - Runs Scored: 1,500 - Batting Average: 14.78 - Highest Score: 62 - Wickets Taken: 180 - Bowling Average: 26.12 - Best Bowling Figures: 5/39

Impact on the Game

Although David Harrison's international career was short, his impact at the domestic level cannot be understated. He was known for his commitment, professionalism, and ability to mentor younger players in the Glamorgan setup. Harrison’s journey through cricket exemplified the importance of perseverance, determination, and passion for the game. Throughout his career, he served as an inspiration for aspiring fast bowlers in Wales and England, displaying that success is achievable through hard work and dedication. David Harrison remains a celebrated figure in the cricketing community, having established a legacy through his contributions to the game and his unwavering spirit to overcome challenges.

Conclusion

David Harrison's journey highlights the dual paths of talent and perseverance in the world of sports. His statistics, while modest in terms of international exposure, tell the story of a cricketer who dedicated his life to a sport he loved deeply. His influence continues within the circles of domestic cricket, ensuring that his legacy endures beyond the statistics.

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