Christopher Lance Cairns (born 13 June 1970) is a former New Zealand cricketer who represented the New Zealand national side as an all-rounder. He also captained the New Zealand One Day International (ODI) team and is widely regarded as one of the finest all-rounders of his era. After retiring as a player, Cairns took up cricket commentary with Sky Sport New Zealand.
| Full name | Christopher Lance Cairns |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | 13 June 1970 |
| Nationality | New Zealander |
| Role | All-rounder |
| National team | New Zealand |
| Domestic team | Canterbury |
| Test batting average | 33.53 |
| Test bowling average | 29.40 |
| Wisden Cricketer of the Year | 2000 |
| ICC Cricket World Cups | 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003 |
| Father | Lance Cairns (former New Zealand cricketer) |
| Post-playing role | Commentator, Sky Sport New Zealand |
Cairns comes from a cricketing family. He is the son of Lance Cairns, who also represented New Zealand in international cricket. He went on to play in both the Test and ODI formats for New Zealand, and was a long-serving member of the Canterbury side in the New Zealand domestic championship.
Cairns played for New Zealand as a genuine all-rounder, contributing significantly with both bat and ball. He finished his Test career with a batting average of 33.53 and a bowling average of 29.40, figures that underline his dual capability with bat and ball.
He featured in four editions of the ICC Cricket World Cup, in 1992, 1996, 1999 and 2003. In addition to playing for New Zealand, Cairns also captained the side in ODI cricket.
Cairns was a member of the New Zealand team that won the 2000 ICC KnockOut Trophy, which was the first ICC trophy won by New Zealand. He played a decisive role in the final, scoring an unbeaten 102 and hitting the winning run.
In 2000, Cairns was named one of the five Wisden Cricketers of the Year, one of the most prestigious individual honours in cricket. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders the game has produced.
Following the conclusion of his playing career, Cairns moved into broadcasting, working as a cricket commentator with Sky Sport New Zealand.