Garfield is one of a famous Irish cricketing family. No less than 4 brothers (Jimmy, Roy, Derek and Garfield) have played for Ireland, as also has their brother-in-law (Eddie Bushe). Garfield is the youngest of these but there are already signs of possible future internationals coming from the next Harrison generation.

Of the Harrisons Garfield has become by far the most successful in International terms, now being the second most capped Irish player with 109 caps, second only to Stephen Warke.

When first selected for Ireland Garfield was an opening bowler, as well as a useful batsman. However, it became clear, not least to Garfield, that he did not have an international future as an opening bowler. He therefore remodelled his action and has become a most successful off break bowler. He has become so successful with this style of bowling that in 1990 he had the best innings anaylsis in First Class Cricket in the U.K. with figures of 9 for 113 v Scotland at Myerside.