He made his first-class debut against South Australia at the Adelaide Oval on 10 January 1986, as cover for the overseas professional, West Indian fast bowler Winston Davis who was out injured.
Dell returned 0/40 off his six overs in the first innings, and did not seem to trouble any of the South Australian batsmen.
His second innings figures of 0/33 off six overs were not much better, and the Tasmanian selectors concluded that he wasn't up to the quality required for Sheffield Shield cricket.
He returned to play for his hometown side, Devonport, where he had a successful career as an all-rounder.
[1] Following his retirement from playing Christopher Dell took up a position as coach of Devonport Orions in his hometown.