Auckland Cricket is saddened to hear of the passing of Honorary Cricket Member Roger Harris, at the age of 92. Roger had been Auckland’s oldest living first class cricketer at the time of his death.

A right-handed batter who usually opened the innings, as well as a handy right arm medium-pacer, Roger first appeared for Auckland against the West Indies in 1955-56. His last match was also against a touring side, the 1973-74 Australians. He scored 46 in the final innings of a representative career that spanned 18 years.

Roger is remembered not only for his time in Auckland colours, but as half of two formidable opening partnerships in senior club cricket. At Papatoetoe he paired up with Auckland team-mate Graham Gedye, and after moving to the University club late in his career he opened the batting with Jim Riley. Their first wicket partnership of 312 against North Shore in 1972-73 remains a club record.

Roger was also a well-regarded senior club rugby player and shares with our Patron John Sparling the rare distinction of having appeared on the main ground at Eden Park in three sports – cricket, rugby and athletics.

After retiring from cricket, Roger maintained his strong interest in the game, and he was a regular attendee at Eden Park until poor health intervened.In 67 first class matches for Auckland he scored 3,598 runs at an average of 31.28, with three hundreds and 20 fifties. He also took 14 wickets at 42.5.

The latter days of his career coincided with the beginnings of the limited over game and he appeared in just four List A matches, scoring 134 runs at 34.5 and capturing 6 wickets at 7.16. Roger played two Test matches against England in 1958-59, and represented the North Island in the same season.

Our thoughts go out to Roger's family and loved ones during their time of loss. RIP

Article added: Tuesday 14 October 2025