Full Name: Rhys James Mariu Date of Birth: August 29, 2001 Place of Birth: Christchurch, New Zealand Role: Top-order Batter Wearing jersey number 29, Rhys Mariu represents a new, inclusive, and exciting chapter in New Zealand cricket. With Samoan and Māori heritage, Mariu holds the distinction of being the first player of Māori descent to represent New Zealand at the Under-19 level—a milestone that reflects not only his immense talent, but also the changing face of Kiwi cricket. Born and raised in Christchurch, Mariu’s cricketing journey began in the fields of Canterbury, where he quickly made a name for himself with his elegance, balance, and calm demeanor at the crease. A product of St. Andrew's College, one of New Zealand’s leading cricket schools, Rhys consistently dominated school and club cricket before graduating to the national age-group scene. Rhys made headlines during the 2020 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, where he opened the innings for New Zealand. His technically sound batting, especially his back-foot punches and off-side drives, drew comparisons to senior Black Caps. What stood out even more was his mental maturity—he batted with discipline, composure, and intent, showing the ability to anchor innings even under pressure. His performances at the U-19 level were not just statistically strong, but symbolically powerful. For young Māori and Pasifika cricketers watching, Mariu was a relatable role model—someone who carried his heritage with pride on the international stage. He often acknowledged the importance of representation and inclusivity in sport, speaking humbly about his role in inspiring the next generation. Following his U-19 success, Mariu continued to rise through the domestic ranks. He signed with Canterbury and began building his First-Class career. Whether playing for Canterbury A or the senior side, Rhys showcased remarkable adaptability—capable of both steady accumulation in longer formats and controlled aggression in white-ball cricket. His hunger to learn and grow has caught the attention of national selectors. Though he’s still in the early stages of his professional career, Rhys has already built a reputation as a hard-working, team-first player with leadership potential. Coaches praise his willingness to put in the hours at training, his humility, and his ability to remain grounded despite the expectations that come with being a trailblazer. Off the field, Rhys is deeply connected to his roots. He often participates in cultural events and gives back to his community, engaging with youth through cricket and education programs. His success is as much about cultural pride and breaking barriers as it is about runs scored. As New Zealand seeks to broaden its cricketing reach and connect with more diverse communities, Rhys Mariu is a powerful symbol of progress. With jersey number 29, a calm presence, and a big future ahead, Mariu is more than just a promising top-order batter—he is a torchbearer of inclusion and a name to watch for years to come.