Canterbury: Ben Harris seeks convener role (30 June 1999)

30 June 1999

Canterbury: Ben Harris seeks convener role

Geoff Longley

Ben Harris is interested in Canterbury cricket's top selection job.

Harris, a former Canterbury and Otago player, appears to be a front-runner to replace outgoing convener of selectors Brian McKechnie.

"I'm available for that position but am happy to be a selector. Whatever suits the needs of Canterbury cricket," Harris said.

Harris stressed he is keen to continue on the selection panel in any form, having started his association last season.

Nominations for a new convener of selectors closed last week, while selectors' nominations close today.

Applicants will be vetted and the successful candidates announced in mid-July.

Canterbury Cricket executive director Tony Murdoch said he and his board of directors are considering up to four selectors for its Shell Series panel. Canterbury cricket is keen to promote promising selectors.

Murdoch said the demise of the national second XI competition had robbed major associations of an opportunity for blooding selectors and coaches.

"We see this as a way of developing a pathway for future conveners."

Meanwhile, Canterbury Cricket will soon advertise for a new operations manager with the departure of Blair Hartland to the Canterbury Tourism Council.

Murdoch also foreshadowed a better financial result for the association with the preparation of the annual accounts.

"Things are looking okay and the loss of last season will not be repeated," said Murdoch, after Canterbury posted a record $243,000 deficit for the 1997-98 year.

Source :: The Christchurch Press (https://www.press.co.nz/)