Plymouth is delighted to announce the signing of promising Kiwi batting all-rounder Chris Swanson for their 2022 Devon Premier League campaign.

Knights prospect

Swanson is an outstanding prospect who is Player/Coach of his Premier club side (Cambridge), long-time skipper of the Minor Association (Waikato Valley), and has recently played for the Northern Districts A side.

Waikato Valley star

Swanson has skippered Waikato Valley since the 2017/18 season, where he has dominated in the respective Brian Dunning Cup, Fergus Hickey Rosebowl, and Hawke Cup competitions. During his first year as skipper, he struck 735 runs at 122.50 with 3 centuries and highest score of 176*, before backing up with 298 runs at 74.50 with 2 further hundreds and highest score of 153 (2018/19).

He was awarded the Waikato Valley’s “Player of the Year” across both seasons. During the latter, he was also the Northern Districts Cricket Association “Cricketer of the Year” too, courtesy of topping the Fergus Hickey Rosebowl run charts for a second season on the bounce (following 485 runs at 97 the previous season).

Northern Districts A success

Whilst less prolific since, Swanson continues to be a stand-out performer for the Association and his success has culminated with Northern Districts A inclusion since the 2018/19 season. He struck a 3-Day century against Auckland A that year, then came close in a one-dayer against Wellington (86) in November 2021.

Cambridge run machine

At Premier club level, unsurprisingly Swanson has starred over the years. His best season to doubt was undoubtedly his run-filled 2018/19 season for Cambridge, with whom he is the current Player/Coach. He struck 742 across the three formats, including 400 at 100, with 2 centuries (HS. 175*) in the Two-Day competition. This summer (2021/22), Swanson has struck another daddy hundred (160) and averages 77 to date.

Whilst known for his runs, Swanson is also a handy medium pacer who takes regular wickets at Premier club level.

Swanson set to follow in Labuschagne’s footsteps

The talented batting all-rounder is now eager to push on to Northern Knight’s honours, and with a view towards his development, is set to embark on his maiden UK stint in 2022 having recently signed with Plymouth Cricket Club for their Devon Premier League campaign.