Harris family welcomes new addition

Australia fast bowler Ryan Harris has announced the safe arrival of his first-born son, Carter James. 

A proud Harris took to social media to announce the birth today, paying tribute to his "amazing" wife, just hours ahead of his Australia teammates taking to the field for their West Indies tour opening match against a President's XI in Antigua.

Harris is missing the West Indies tour to be home with wife Cherie for the birth, and to ensure he is fully fit and refreshed for the Ashes defence in the UK.

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Ryan and a pregnant Cherie at this year's Allan Border Medal // Getty Images

Harris had earlier joked about how his dog, Hank the boxer, would welcome the new arrival. 

"He's not going to be impressed," Harris said last summer. "He's long been treated as an only child. He not only has his own bedroom, but his own car."

Watch: Harris the family man

The addition to the Harris family follows hot on the heels of Australia teammate Shane Watson announcing the birth of his second child, daughter Matilda Victoria.

Matilda is the younger sister for two-year-old Will, and the proud father said both mother and daughter were doing well. 

The exciting news capped off a busy week for Watson, who made the trip home after the Rajasthan Royals were knocked out of the Indian Premier League finals race on Wednesday.

Watson is missing Australia's warm-up match against the President's XI and is due to arrive in the Caribbean tonight ahead of the first Test against the West Indies starting on June 3.

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Will and Shane Watson after the SCG Test earlier this year // Getty Images

"Before our two Tests in the West Indies I’ve got a more immediate priority, which is getting home to see the birth of our second baby," Watson wrote in his column for cricket.com.au at the start of the week.

"It’s such an exciting time, and hopefully the timing works out so I can be there with my wife Lee for the birth.

"But I also know that immediately after that, I’ll be heading to the West Indies and I’m really looking forward to this next stage of cricket for Australia.

"It’s a big three to four months coming up with the Ashes to follow the Caribbean tour, and there’s no doubt it’s something we’ve all been looking forward to, especially after the World Cup and after that incredible win in the final at the MCG.

"Once the baby has safely arrived, I can’t wait to get over there and be up and going again."