Yesterday, James Harris announced his retirement from professional cricket with immediate effect, bringing a fulfilled, 19-year career to an end.

Beginning his career in Pontarddulais Cricket Club, Harris is an exemplary product of the Welsh Cricket Pathway, breaking records for his performances at a young age.

Harris debuted for Glamorgan in 2007 at just 16 years old and proved he belonged at County level. In just his second match, he became the youngest player in club history to take 10 wickets in a County Championship match, taking 12-118 against Gloucestershire across his 17th birthday.

This immediate impact cemented Harris as one of the UK’s most promising players. As a teenager, he competed in the England U19’s and England Lions squad before being called up to the senior international team for the 2013 white ball tour in New Zealand.

In the same year, after six years with the club and establishing himself as the main strike bowler. Harris moved to Middlesex, winning the County Championship at Lord’s in 2016.

In 2022, Harris moved back to his home club, playing an important role in Glamorgan’s promotion to Division One last season. The club say that Harris has represented the club with distinction and professionalism, earning respect for his commitment to the game.

He ends his career with 623 of his 773 wickets coming from First-class cricket, passing a half-century 19 times in that format. Harris is also known at the club for his contributions off the pitch, particularly his invaluable leadership in the dressing room during his second stint.

Harris said “It’s hard to fully express what the game has given me. From starting out as a 16-year-old with a dream to playing professionally for over two decades. I feel incredibly fortunate for the journey I’ve been on. Cricket has shaped so much of my life.

“I wish everyone at Glamorgan the very best for the season ahead. While I know the timing is not ideal this close to the start of the season, this is undoubtedly the right move for me and my family. I’d like to thank the Club for their understanding, and I leave the game with a huge sense of gratitude for everything it has given me and I’m excited for what lies ahead.

“I look forward to returning to Sophia Gardens and starting to enjoy the game from the other side of the boundary.”

Mark Wallace, director of Cricket at Glamorgan, said: “I’ve been fortunate to have known James throughout his cricketing journey. While the performances on the field will speak for themselves it is his impact off the field which will be equally missed.

“James has been a superb role-model throughout, played the game in an excellent spirit and done everything in his power to elevate those around him. The game is losing one of its best.

“The club wishes James nothing but the best for his next chapter and we look forward to welcoming him back to Sophia Gardens in the future.”

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