Chris Martin

Chris Martin Biography

Chris Martin is the former New Zealand cricketer, who was one of the leading fast bowlers of the side. Born in Christchurch, Canterbury, Martin played provincial cricket for Auckland, having formerly played for the Canterbury Wizards. He was one of the most consistent bowlers for New Zealand in the 2000s.

Background

Martin started his first-class cricket for Canterbury Wizards and later played for provincial cricket for Auckland. He made his Test debut for New Zealand in 2000 against South Africa at Mangaung Ova.

Although New Zealand lost the match by five wickets, Martin showed his talent by taking three wickets in first Innings and one in the second innings.

Martin played his first ODI against Zimbabwe in 2001. He could not take any wicket in the match as New Zealand ended up losing the match.

International Career

Having started his international career in 2000, Martin soon became the premier fast bowler for New Zealand. He was often considered to be second lead in fast bowling department after Shane Bond.

However, Bond's frequent injuries meant Martin was often thrust into the role of number one fast bowler.

Being a premier fast bowler, he was an awkward tail-end batsman and his batting got more publicity than his bowling because of the ducks he scored on the international level.

Martin holds the record for most ducks for New Zealand and also holds the record for the most pairs recorded in Test match history. Seven times he got out on duck in both innings of the test match.

He also became the second player in the history of cricket to have more wickets than runs.

Club Career

Martin has also played a season of club cricket in Scotland for Heriots FP Cricket Club. After that, he joined English county side, Warwickshire, for their 2008 domestic campaign.

Retirement

Martin announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on 3 July 2013. Having played 71 tests and 21 ODIs, Martin bowed out as the third highest Test wicket-taker in New Zealand’s history.