Last year Nelson College made the Gillette Cup cricket finals for the first time. A big part of their success was the contribution of Joel Harden. He made 273 runs at 54.60 and took three wickets at 13.99. His 134 not out against King’s High School set up Nelson’s first ever win at the National cricket tournament.
In the winter Joel was a member of the First XV rugby team that made the Press Cup final. Joel’s father is Richard Harden, a former first class cricketer for Somerset and Central Districts. Richard played 253 matches and scored 13,336 runs at 37.67, including 28 centuries.
Joel is currently in England and is attempting to replicate the success of his Dad.
Who have you been playing cricket for in England and how did that chance arise?
I am playing for the first eleven at a private school called Blundell’s in the south west. At the moment we haven’t started our season. So far we have just been training. In the Easter holidays, I had my chance to play for the Somerset second eleven and played for the Hampshire seconds. This was my first game and fortunately I had a bit of luck and made 58. I am a a full boarder for the summer term. The chance came about from having good contacts over here as my father played with the cricket master at the school.
Name the people who have had a big impact on your sporting success and explain why?
Obviously my parents have had a major impact in my success and have supported me all the way. My coach Garry McDonald has also played a big part in helping me become the player and person I am. Big thanks to my old teacher, team mate, coach and friend Luke Toynbee who has helped me believe. My rugby coaches Mr Ave and Lachie Taylor had a big impact on my rugby and thanks to them for the chances I was given.
Last year Nelson College made the Gillette Cup finals for the first time? What was the key to this success and will it carry on and why?
There were many factors leading to our success. We had strong all-round players, we enjoyed each other’s company and had an experienced bunch of leaders. Garry MacDonald our coach was great, and he helped us all the way. He was a major part of everything we did. He installed huge belief in us.
Tell us about your century at the Gillette Cup?
My century at Gillette cup was very special to me. Fortunately we won the toss on a flat one and batted first. It came at a good time for me and the team and led to our first win in Gillette cup history and will remain a proud moment.
From a personal viewpoint what have been your other cricking highlights?
My most memorable cricket achievements would include making the Under-17 national tournament team, the Central Districts under-19 and under-17 teams, the Somerset County Second Eleven and the Nelson Men’s team. Scoring 200 for the first eleven and two hundreds for the CD under-17’s was pretty special to.
You played rugby for the First XV? What position did you play and what was the highlight of that experience?
I played on the wing for the First XV and enjoyed the whole season! The highlight of the year was probably winning the semi-final against Marlborough Boys’ College at Trafalgar Park and contributing two tries.
Who are your favourite sportsman?
My favourite sportsman include Sachin Tendulkar, Kane Williamson and Cristiano Ronaldo
What are your hobbies outside of sport?
When I’m not playing sport, I enjoy socialising with my mates and spending time with my family. I’m also a big foodie and love going out for tea.