Cricket Books

Book SynopsisWho played the best pranks on his fellow team-mates? Which member of the TMS team terrorised his teachers in the annual staff-pupil game? And the truth behind 'the greatest sporting commentary of all time'...Between them, Jonathan Agnew and Phil Tufnell have probably watched more cricket than anyone alive, and they have many stories to tell, both as players and as commentators for Test Match Special. From their days as schoolboy cricketers, learning the ropes, to the shenanigans of the county circuit, and now their careers as commentators, they have seen it all.Joined by colleagues from TMS such as Isa Guha, Ebony Rainford Brent, Alison Mitchell, Carlos Brathwaite and Aatif Nawaz, Aggers and Tuffers share the highlights, mishaps and moments of brilliance and emotion that they have witnessed and experienced on pitches around the world.

Read more less

Book SynopsisSpirit of the Blues is the definitive story of Everton's 133 years at Goodison Park, told with help from those who were there. Chronicling golden eras, landmark moments, Merseyside derbies, quirky stories and goals galore from Goodison's first fixture in 1892 to its final one in 2025 it's a must-read for every Everton fan.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe New Zealand Cricket Almanack is the cricket lover’s bible and is regarded worldwide as one of the finest books of its kind. The 75th edition contains all the details of another full year of cricket at all levels.

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBatting for the Poor is the authorised biography of David Sheppard, telling the story of his life as a celebrated cricketer and his remarkable work as Bishop of Liverpool.Trade ReviewAs Liverpool’s exceptional bishops, David Sheppard and Derek Worlock healed old wounds, championed great causes, and put faith into action in the city’s forgotten neighbourhoods. A first-class biography of David Sheppard is long overdue, and Andrew Bradstock has provided it. * David Alton (Lord Alton of Liverpool) *David Sheppard "stood out" in every sense of the term. He was unusually tall; played cricket for England; championed the disadvantaged; and turned a fiercely sectarian city into a beacon of ecumenism. This book tells us how. * Grace Davie, Professor Emeritus, University of Exeter *David Sheppard continually asked awkward questions, both of himself and others, but always in the context of an unshakeable faith. This is a book, and a life, we could all learn from. * David Puttnam (Baron Puttnam, CBE) *Bishop David Sheppard’s partnership with Archbishop Derek Worlock overcame the religious barriers as they led the fight against poverty and division in Liverpool, which has had a lasting effect and which is well documented in this publication. * The Most Rev’d Malcolm McMahon OP, Archbishop of Liverpool *This is a superb biography. At the end of it you feel you know not only the man, with all his strengths and frailties, but also the times in which he lived, with all their challenges. * Stephen Chalke, cricket historian *With elegant prose and faithful reporting, Andrew Bradstock has produced an accurate portrait of the life and ministry of the David Sheppard I knew and admired. * Rt Revd Wilfred Wood, retired Bishop of Croydon *David Sheppard’s life is fully deserving of this detailed, even forensic, biography. His character fully epitomized the old adage for life, 'make a plan and stick to it'. He was a friend to me in my private life, as well as a stalwart partner on the cricket field – we put on 124 runs together on the final winning day of the Melbourne Test in 1963! * Ted Dexter, CBE, former captain, Sussex and England *David Sheppard, former England Cricket Captain, ought to have been Archbishop of Canterbury. He was a remarkable man, who did good wherever he went. This splendid work is the full-scale biography that we have long needed. * Peter Oborne, author, biographer of Basil D'Oliveira and political columnist for the Daily Mail and Middle East Eye. *David Sheppard: Batting for the Poor is an excellent biography dedicated to the life and times of outstanding English test batsman, captain and highly respected Anglican bishop, David Sheppard. David was a man of principle often facing difficult social times in ministry and sport. He lived his life in sacrificial service to others and for the glory of God. A wonderful opponent and encouraging Christian friend when the Ashes were played in true respect of cricket. An uplifting and challenging read. * Brian Booth, Australian test cricketer and captain *I was honoured to have known and worked with David Sheppard. At least I thought I knew him. What is clear to me from this not wholly uncritical yet authorised biography is that I had only the sketchiest knowledge of this remarkable man of God. And cricket. A fascinating read on many levels. * Jane Reed CBE, former editor, Woman’s Own *David Sheppard reshaped Church approaches to poverty, especially among evangelicals, paving the way for today’s foodbank movement. This great account of his eventful life underlines Sheppard’s lasting influence. * Rt Hon. Stephen Timms, MP *An excellent biography, well researched, well written. Bradstock explores the struggle between ambition and virtue in Sheppard’s life on the cricket field, in the church and in his family. This is fascinating not just for cricket-lovers but for everyone. * Brian Griffiths (Lord Griffiths of Fforestfach), Chairman, Centre for Enterprise, Markets and Ethics (CEME) *The picture that emerges in this book is of a man who far ahead of his time...A suitable memorial to a life well lived. Everyone reading it with any degree of self awareness is certain to be given a cause to reflect on their own beliefs and behaviours. -- Terry Wright * Deep Extra Cover *Compelling . . . This impeccably researched book does ample justice to Sheppard’s remarkable life as a cricketer and clergyman. * Wisden Cricketer’s Almanac 2020 *This is a biography of the very highest order: informed, inspiring and brilliantly crafted. * Christianity *Whatever one’s stance on the religious aspect, this is a superb book. * Association of Cricket Statisticians and Historians *It is difficult to imagine a more enriching life than that lived by Sheppard and impossible to think a better book could be written about it than the one Bradstock has given us. * The Cricketer *A remarkable book about a remarkable man . . . a star who shone brighter than nearly all others and had three careers, as batsman, bishop, and peer. Bradstock has expertly woven diversity into a tapestry where a mass of detail, including pages of cricket scores, supports the big stories of personal theological growth, sporting prowess, passionate social concern, and extraordinary inner-city leadership. * Church Times *A fitting and timely tribute to a fine cricketer, albeit one who reserved his greatest achievements for life beyond the pages of Wisden. -- Martin Chandler * Cricket Web.net *

Read more less

Book SynopsisGarry Sobers is a cricketing legend, the greatest all-rounder of all time. In this revealing and honest autobiography, Sobers talks about his upbringing and about the tragic accident that inspired him throughout his career. He explains how he helped the West Indies to become the most feared cricketing nation in the world, setting them on a course of success that would run for another 20 years. He also provides authoritative views on the current state of the game and the future of cricket.Trade ReviewThe book is as entertaining as this great player was in his heyday * David Llewellyn, Independent *Cricket fans will be reminded not only how irresistible he was as a cricketer, but also how his uninhibited and generous-spirited personality made him so easy to like and so difficult to forget * Edward Smith, Sunday Telegraph *

Read more less

Book Synopsis''I don''t think anyone, apart from Don Bradman, is in the same class as Sachin Tendulkar.'' -Shane WarneReaders are in love with Sachin Tendulkar''s autobiography: ''A must read for anyone who knows cricket'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐''An idol . . . An inspiration'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐''A great book by one of the all time greats'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐''Brings back so many wonderful memories''⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐''This book has made me feel proud to be a lover of the game and has inspired me to succeed in everything I do.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐The story of the greatest cricket player of all time, told in his own words. __________The greatest run-scorer in the history of cricket, Sachin Tendulkar retired in 2013 after an astonishing 24 years at the top. The most celebrated Indian cricketer of all time, hTrade Reviewit's a gem in the way it captures the moment - Sydney Morning Heraldthere's a lot of emotion in here, from start to finish - Launceston Examiner

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE HILARIOUS NEW BOOK FROM ONE OF BRITAIN'S BEST-LOVED NATIONAL TREASURES!This is not a book of life lessons. But Freddie Flintoff has had a moment to reflect and he's noticed that throughout his four decades, although there's been little method in the madness, there has been the occasional common thread. The Book of Fred is filled with anecdotes, observations and the odd opinion all told with Fred's trademark humour and no-nonsense style. Fred's approach to life draws on the sublime (his series winning performance in the 2005 Ashes) and the ridiculous (singing Elvis Presley's 'Suspicious Minds' in front of a live audience), from highs (making the transition to top TV presenter) to occasional lows (accidentally upsetting the lovely Bruce Forsyth), from the profane (discussing Shane Warne's barnet with Hollywood royalty) to the profound (why 'having a go' leads to self-respect). Throughout, Fred shares his code for success, happiness and a life fully lived - and gives his readers a laugh, some joy, and (the occasional) pause for thought along the way.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE BRITISH SPORTS BOOK AWARDS CRICKET BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNER OF THE MCC / CRICKET SOCIETY BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD  WINNER OF THE HEARTACHES' CRICKET BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD LONGLISTED FOR THE WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK THE YEAR AWARD An England cricket tour is a phenomenon with few parallels. England's Test, one-day and Twenty20 sides are typically overseas for around 150 days a year, playing anywhere from Barbados to Brisbane, Cape Town to Colombo. Since 1877, they have fulfilled more than 1,000 fixtures away from home.  In this definitive history, Simon Wilde explores England's tours from every angle. He celebrates the great team performances and individual feats - from James Lillywhite to Ben Stokes, every captain has aspired to venture abroad and return a hero - but also tells of adventure and misadventure, mishaps and scandal. Trade Review‘This entertaining account is as much social history as sports reporting, as he engagingly dissects the various political, economic, social and practical aspects of sending England teams around the world, as well as delving into how England teams can be successful overseas’ * Country Life *‘A superbly researched mix of analysis and anecdote . . . hugely readable and highly recommended’ * Cricketer *‘No sport has tours like cricket tours . . . which is why Simon Wilde’s comprehensive history of the English cricket team abroad is so packed with interest . . . Riveting’ * Daily Mail *'A fine and comprehensive history . . . plenty of fun tales' * The Times *

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Fascinating and insightful . . . lifts the curtain to reveal the inner workings of international cricket. A must-read for any cricketer, coach or fan'' Eoin Morgan''This path-breaking book should be compulsory reading for commentators and captains - and all cricket fans'' Mervyn King''Clever and original but also wise'' Ed SmithHow valuable is winning the toss? And how should captains use it to their advantage? Why does a cricket ball swing? Why don''t Indians bat left-handed? What is a good length and why? Why are leg-spinners so successful in T20 cricket? Why did England win the World Cup? Why do all Test bowlers bowl at either 55 or 85mph? Why don''t they pitch it up?All cricketers long to know the answer to these questions and many more. Only fifteen years ago it would have been difficult to answer them - cricket was guided only by decades-old tradition and received wisdom. Data has changed everything. Today wTrade Review"He held degrees in both English and Economics, and the ability to to articulate the world of one, with the words of the other." The writer here is Nathan Leamon and the subject is baseball pioneer Bill James. But Leamon (both a novelist and a data analyst) could just as easily be writing about himself. Leamon has a rare kind of high intelligence: he is open to all kinds of knowledge, not just scientific knowledge, and he understands which method is appropriate in which circumstance. Put differently, he is not only clever and original, but also wise * Ed Smith, National Selector for England cricket & author of What Sport Tells Us About Life *Fascinating and insightful . . . lifts the curtain to reveal the inner workings of international cricket. A must-read for any cricketer, coach or fan * Eoin Morgan *Sport has been revolutionized by data. In their path-breaking book, Nathan Leamon and Ben Jones use data to show that many of our preconceptions are false and reveal astonishing new insights into international cricket. Compulsory reading for fans, commentators, captains and players * Mervyn King *Deeply thoughtful, clever and open-minded . . . One way of viewing this book is as cricket's A Brief History of Time, a layman's guide to deep complexity, an act of communication as much as one of science. On that level it works beautifullywell, engaging with concepts in attention-grabbing ways -- Jon Hotten * Wisden Cricket Monthly *Fascinating -- Steve James * The Times *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLERAND WINNER OF THE 2019 WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEARDuncan Hamilton is already a multiple award-winning sports writer, but it is hard to imagine he will write a better book than this superb, elegiac portrait of the sociable, feted, but ultimately unknowable, man who virtually invented modern sports writing...This is writing every bit the equal of Cardus himself. - Daily Mail''Hamilton is a worthy biographer... as much sublime writing comes from his keyboard as from Cardus''s pen.'' The Times''With its verve, insight and generosity of sympathy, this is by some way the best full-length life of a cricket writer, perhaps even of any sports writer.'' Guardian Neville Cardus described how one majestic stroke-maker ''made music'' and ''spread beauty'' with his bat. Between two world wars, he became the laureate of cricket by doing the same with words.In Trade ReviewDuncan Hamilton is already a multiple award-winning sports writer, but it is hard to imagine he will write a better book than this superb, elegiac portrait of the sociable, feted, but ultimately unknowable, man who virtually invented modern sports writing...This is writing every bit the equal of Cardus himself. * Daily Mail *Duncan Hamilton has written some of the best books about sport in recent years. Twice he has won the William Hill for the sports book of the year... He [Cardus] interpreted cricket through a filter of his own, an imagination of uncommon sensitivity, and all who came after are in his debt. All lovers of cricket will enjoy this book. You could say that Hamilton has done it again. -- Michael Henderson * The Cricketer *Hamilton is a worthy biographer. Ten years after his fine biography of Harold Larwood, the maligned England fast bowler, this is just as good, and as much sublime writing comes from his keyboard as from Cardus's pen. -- Patrick Kidd * The Times *The Great Romantic has a strong personal flavour, especially in its tour de force of a prologue...the interest seldom falters. With its verve, insight and generosity of sympathy, this is by some way the best full-length life of a cricket writer, perhaps even of any sports writer. -- David Kynaston * The Guardian *This is not just stand-out sports writing but a stand-out study: one writer acknowledging another. * Sydney Morning Herald *Praise for Going to the Match * : *Hamilton is steeped in the history and traditions of football and communicates his knowledge lightly and with wit and intelligence. Above all, though, this is a fan's-eye view that brilliantly expresses the passion that millions like him, in pursuit of happiness and belonging, feel for the beautiful game. Simply magnificent. * Mail on Sunday *In Duncan Hamilton, one of the most accomplished of current sports writers, Cardus has found a worthy biographer who has ferreted out hidden details of his life, including those that Cardus himself skated over in his two volumes of autobiography. The Great Romantic is beautifully written, and Cardus would surely have approved of it. -- Stephen Bates * Literary Review *

Read more less

Book SynopsisIm in the team can you come and watch me play? If you will be sitting by a cricket pitch this summer, mystified by the antics on the field in front of you, Cricket Made Simple is the book for you. Not only will it help to explain what is going on from the spectators viewpoint it will also raise you several notches in your loved ones esteem. After reading Cricket Made Simple, you will be able to talk knowledgeably about spin and swing bowling, off drives, knocking in, and know the difference between a googly and an off-break. You might even enjoy the matches much more as a result. Just as well because they can take up a whole day at junior level, or up to five days for a Test match. The author, a mother who has spent many seasons at her sons playing fields, provides a complete guide to the intricacies of cricket for all those bemused supporters to whom this sport is a complete mystery. She also includes valuable advice on supporter etiquette and preparing cricket teas as well as dealing with the inevitable washing mountain. Cricket Made Simple is for all bemused supporters, male and female, who loyally turn out to cheer in all weathers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisNothing compares to the Ashes. The Ashes is always coming, even when it is finished. The Ashes is where hope, expectation, magic and chagrin flourish in equal measure, and performance is permanently burnished.'The best cricket writer in the world' Guardian'The Bradman of cricket writing' Sunday Telegraph'The finest cricket writer alive' The Australian'Australia's finest writer on cricket' The Times'The most gifted cricket essayist of his generation' Richard Williams, GuardianIn On The Ashes, Gideon Haigh, today's pre-eminent cricket writer, has captured over a century and a half of Anglo-Australian cricket, from WG Grace to Don Bradman, from Bodyline to Jim Laker's 19-wicket match, from Ian Botham's miracle at Headingley to the phenomena of Patrick Cummins and Ben Stokes, today's Ashes captains.From over three decades of covering The Ashes, Gideon has brought together an enduring vision of this timeless contest between Australia and England - the world's oldest sporting rivalry - from the colonial era to the present day.Table of Contentsi: Foreword 1: Golden Age, Darker Lining 2: Bodyline and Other Lines 3: Cricket's Cold War 4: The Instant Age 5: Ashes Eyewitness ii: Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisCricket is blessed with quality prose and gifted writing. The nobles and gentlemen who brought the game of cricket from England's villages to the pavilion at Lord's were often as equally blessed with the gift of wit and banter as they were with leather and willow. Their turns of phrase, intellectual insights and outlandish observations were as likely to knock you for six as to leave you stumped. The Little Book of Cricket encapsulates their often hilarious, sometimes sombre and occasionally downright bizarre quotes as the greats of the game, from Don Bradman to Steve Waugh and Ian Botham to Freddie Flintoff, all describe their beloved sport in their own words. 'He's got it, England have won the World Cup by the barest of margins... Absolute ecstasy for England, agony, agony for New Zealand.' Ian Smith, New Zealand commentor, calling that crucial final ball of the super over. 'He lifted the game from a state of conventional excitement to one of unbelievable suspense and drama and finally into the realm of romantic fiction.' Henry Blofeld, on a then 18-year-old Ian Botham, 1974.Table of ContentsLore: the history and the rules • Batsmen: the game's greatest run scorers • Quicks: banter from the bowlers • Spinners: dominating the record books • All Rounders: delivering devastating quips • Legendary teams: the players and the games • Great grounds: unlocking the venues • Moments in time: from Bodyline to World Cup magic • Media: the genius behind the commentary.

Read more less

Book SynopsisLARA: The England Chronicles is Brian Lara in his own voice, unfiltered and unrestrained.

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'An astonishing work of research, detail and revelation. Bulging with information, packed with nuggets.' John Etheridge, Sun'Superbly researched... His eye for detail never wavers. It’s a pleasure to read.' Vic Marks, Observer'The Cricket Book of the Year: Dauntingly comprehensive and surprisingly light-footed.' Simon Briggs, Daily TelegraphEngland: The Biography is the most comprehensive account of the England cricket team that has ever been published, taking the reader into the heart of the action and the team dynamics that have helped shape their success, or otherwise.  It is now 140 years since England first played Test match cricket and, for much of that time, it has struggled to perform to the best of its capabilities. In the early years, amateurs would pick and choose which matches and tours they would play; subsequentTrade Review'An astonishing work of research, detail and revelation. Bulging with information, packed with nuggets.' -- John Etheridge * Sun *'Superbly researched piece of work by Simon Wilde. His eye for detail never wavers; he never cuts any corners. It’s a pleasure to read but also works as a reference book.' -- Vic Marks * Observer *The Cricket Book of the Year: 'At once dauntingly comprehensive and surprisingly light-footed.' -- Simon Briggs * Daily Telegraph *'He has done a fabulous job with this book. Inevitably, history reveals historical patterns.' -- Simon Barnes * The Cricketer *'A meaty book, and it has to be. Wilde tells the story with clarity and a pleasing lack of bias.' -- Michael Henderson * The Times *'Another wonderful sports book on the shelves this summer is a brilliantly presented history of English cricket written by Simon Wilde. Not only does it cover all the major matches, issues and controversies of our national summer game, it is also speckled liberally with fascinating lists and statistics... The book is simply a treat.' -- Jim Holden * Sunday Express *'Fellow [cricket] tragics will love this book, issued in the summer of England’s 1,000th Test match. Even the title – England: The Biography – deserves a round of applause for presuming that the nation is synonymous with cricket... The book’s greatest joys are its footnotes.' -- Francis Wheen * Mail on Sunday *‘A well-written, engaging, analytical narrative rich in opinion and revealing facts’ -- Roderick Easdale * Country Life *'An impressive and comprehensive gem...superbly researched and brilliantly delivered. It is going to...be indispensable. It needs to be read, and it deserves to sell well.' -- Huw Turbervill * The Cricketer *'A collection of 35 thematic chapters rather than a chronological narrative and is packed full of stats and fascinating details.' * Mail on Sunday, Sports Books of the Year *'His story of the England cricket team's development is not just highly informative but offers a valuable and lasting perspective... Here is a book that all those writing about the game will want in their laptops as well as their libraries. The book that Wilde was destined to write, a reminder that he is surely the finest editor that Wisden Cricketers Almanack never had; perhaps there is still time.' -- David Hopps * Cricinfo *‘A well-written, engaging, analytical narrative rich in opinion and revealing facts’ -- Roderick Easdale * Country Life *

Read more less

Book SynopsisSimple to master and great fun to play, Howzat! is the cricket dice game that can be played anytime, anywhere! - One-of-a-kind components: Includes metal dice, rolling mat, and scorepad- Miniature book: A 32-page informative mini book includes cricket trivia and the rules of the game - Portable: Ideal for travel or at the office- Perfect gift: A fun gift item for frustrated cricketers of all ages

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA TIMES, GUARDIAN, TELEGRAPH AND WATERSTONES BEST SPORT BOOK OF THE YEARGripping' Roger Alton, Sunday TimesThe inside story of how England transformed the way Test cricket is played.For 145 years, Test cricket had been played mainly in one way, but the old ways weren't working. After one win in 17 by the start of the summer of 2022, England needed something new.Then came Bazball', driven by new head coach Brendon (Baz') McCullum and captain Ben Stokes. They embarked on a brand of Test cricket that breathed life into an ailing format, breaking records as they began by winning 11 out 13 games. The once rudderless and ridiculed England Test team soon became cricket's most talked-about phenomenon.Told via a mixture of interviews with the protagonists and ringside reporting, Bazball is an unmissable read, marking one of the most thrilling revolutions in any sport. Updated to include E

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Thin White Line is the gripping account of the spot-fixing scandal which sent shockwaves through cricket. Taking the reader through the events of that August and beyond, it reveals how the News of the World uncovered the criminality of the Pakistan captain and his two best bowlers, and how its star reporter followed them to jail.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis fascinating book reveals the secrets of fast bowling and explains how it is possible to simultaneously bowl fast, straight and accurately. The Fast Bowler's Bible is a very practical, easily accessible bowling manual that any seam or swing bowler playing at any level can understand. It contains explosive new information being used by the world's best cricketers. Written by one of the world's best fast-bowling coaches. Well illustrated with sixty photographs and thirty-four diagrams and drawings. Explains what part of your body generates pace and why holding onto the ball longer is far more effective. Unravels the mysteries of advanced biomechanics as they apply to bowling. Reveals how to bowl crushingly effective bouncers and yorkers every time. Discusses what to do in practice and what to avoid. Analyses how to train and exercise in order to produce the best results. Illustrates all the correct grips for each delivery so that you get it right every time. Describes how to increase pace effortlessly, how to adopt the correct mental approach, how to deal with pressure, how to apply it to the opposition, and much more.Trade Review"I wish that I had met Ian Pont, the bowling coach, ten years before I did... Ian is an expert in his field and has got some excellent ideas on how to engineer a bowling action." Ronnie Irani, Essex and England

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn 1968, Yorkshire County Cricket Club won a record 29th outright County Championship title. Blessed with the talents of Brian Close, Fred Trueman and Geoffrey Boycott, they dominated their opponents through sheer desire, skill and belief. It was a golden era for the club, and no one saw it coming to an end. But over the next few years, everything changed. Yorkshire's star players departed and their rivals benefited from the introduction of overseas professionals like Garry Sobers, Viv Richards and Clive Rice. As they decided only to hire those born within the county, Yorkshire struggled to compete with their contemporaries and became one of the worst-performing teams in the land. It was a dire time for the club. But when a young Sachin Tendulkar arrived at Headingley in April 1992, a revolution began. Through his talent and personality, Yorkshire's first overseas player modernised a failing institution and gained experience that helped him become the greatest international batsman of his generation. This is the story of how a promising 19-year-old became an Honorary Tyke... and, in the process, changed the history of England's most successful club.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFollowing the success of Remarkable Cricket Grounds, author Brian Levison focuses his attention on the amazing variety of grassroots cricket venues throughout the British Isles. In the original book he covered some of the largest stadia where cricket is played throughout the world. In Remarkable Village Cricket Grounds he concentrates on the smallest. The inventory of beautiful and atmospheric grounds includes those played by the seaside, at the edge of moorland, in front of grand country houses or on wind-blasted hillsides. Village cricket is played next to windmills, thatched cottages, trout streams, in the heart of Cotswold stone hamlets, and on many of the country's verdant village greens. There are some classic cricketing pubs included along with lavish teas, ancient pitch rollers, equally ancient club secretaries and a variety of warning signs for those wishing to park their car within slogging distance. Almost all of the venues are located in the kind of set-piece British landscape that will have the tourist boards begging for copies. It is a treasury of British life featuring clubs from: Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Hampshire, Sussex, Kent, Wiltshire, Bedfordshire, Surrey, Essex, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, Yorkshire, Cheshire, Lancashire, Cumbria, Northumberland, Leicestershire, Wales and Scotland.Trade Review'[T]his beautiful book showing some of the finest grounds in the country.' * This England *

Read more less

Book Synopsis'The most eccentric golf book ever' Sports and Leisure Magazine Golf's Strangest Rounds is an absorbing collection of bizarre tales from the lengthy annals of the sport’s history. There are stories of tragedy, eccentricity, tactical slipups and ones that defy categorization altogether – meet ‘Mysterious Montague’, for example, of the world’s best golfers but a man who refused ever to compete in a tournament. You’ll find plenty of golfing greats here – Gene Sarazen, Chip Beck, Greg Norman, Nick Faldo – all of whom have played their parts in irrational finishes, record rounds and famous freak shots. The tales within these pages are bizarre, fascinating, hilarious and, most importantly, true. This brand new edition, redesigned in splendid hardback for 2018, is the perfect gift for any golf fanatic. Word count: 45,000

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe 44th edition of The Cricketers’ Who’s Who tells you all you need to know about every player from all 18 counties and includes an expanded women’s section to take in the growing number of professional female cricketers as well as the England Women squad. Close to 500 players have answered questions ranging from the greatest performance they have ever witnessed to their lives away from cricket, giving readers an exclusive insight into everyone who will be competing this summer. Detailed career statistics are included for each player, plus there is a round-up of the 2022 season, including tables, averages and MVPs. There are profiles of all the head coaches, a look at how each county is shaping up for the new season, and fixture lists for the England men’s and women’s teams. Plus Worcestershire captain Brett D’Oliveira reflects on his own unique path into the game and speculates on how Bazball is impacting county cricket.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA follow-up to last year's award-winning first volume, Sticky Dogs and Stardust Volume 2 is another cache of fascinating and - in many cases - previously untold stories documenting the experiences of superstar cricketers playing for recreational teams.

Read more less

Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE MCC / CRICKET SOCIETY BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD  George Hirst, Schofield Haigh and Wilfred Rhodes were known as The Triumvirate. Inseparable pals off the field and a devastating combination on it, the trio helped turn Yorkshire into the greatest county cricket team of the early 20th century.  George Herbert Hirst was one of the most popular sportsmen of his era, his brilliance with bat and ball matched by the warmth of his personality. Schof was the greatest wet wicket bowler of his time, his flow of cheery wisecracks masking insecurities about his form and fitness. Wilfred was quiet and watchful, his analytical brain marking him out as the Sherlock Holmes of the summer game. Together they left a legacy of great deeds, good humour and decency: gentle men from a gentler time.   Trade Review'A masterpiece of observation and comic timing' * Wisden Cricket Monthly *'In this wistful paean, Pearson...knits all these achievements together with lovely turns of phrase and colourful descriptions' * The Times *'An engrossing study' * The Cricketer *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER FROM CRICKET'S HUGELY POPULAR COMMENTATOR With his infectious enthusiasm for the game, David 'Bumble' Lloyd blends immense knowledge and experience with an eye for the quirky detail and an unending fund of brilliant stories. This definitive autobiography recalls his childhood in Accrington, Lancashire, when, after a long day playing cricket in the street, he would get his chance to wash himself in his family's bath - but only after his parents and uncle had taken their turn first. From being last in the tin bath, he moved on to make his debut for Lancashire while still in his teens, eventually earning an England call-up, when he had to face the pace of Lillee and Thomson - with painful and eye-watering consequences. After retiring as a player, he became an umpire and then England coach during the 1990s, before eventually turning to commentary with Sky Sports. After spendin

Read more less

Book SynopsisDavid 'Bumble' Lloyd is one of cricket's great characters - hilarious, informative and insightful, and filled with boundless enthusiasm for the game. Now, in Cricket Characters, he tells the stories of the most important, influential, talented and entertaining characters he has come across in sixty years in the game.   Following on from the bestselling successes of Last in the Tin Bath and Around the World in 80 Pints, in his new book Bumble looks back at the cricketers who have had the greatest impact on him throughout his career. From the gnarly veterans he first played against as a teenager in the Lancashire League, through the old pros he met on the county circuit while at Lancashire on to a revealing insight into life alongside Mike Atherton, Ian Botham, Nasser Hussain and Shane Warne in the commentary box, this book reveals Bumble at his best: telling great stories about his favourite people

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn 1932, England's cricket team, led by the haughty Douglas Jardine, had the fastest bowler in the world: Harold Larwood. Australia boasted the most prolific batsman the game had ever seen: the young Don Bradman. He had to be stopped. The leg-side bouncer onslaught inflicted by Larwood and Bill Voce, with a ring of fieldsmen waiting for catches, caused an outrage that reverberated to the back of the stands and into the highest levels of government. Bodyline, as this infamous technique came to be known, was repugnant to the majority of cricket-lovers. It was also potentially lethal - one bowl fracturing the skull of Australian wicketkeeper Bert Oldfield - and the technique was outlawed in 1934. After the death of Don Bradman in 2001, one of the most controversial events in cricketing history - the Bodyline technique - finally slid out of living memory. Over seventy years on, the 1932-33 Ashes series remains the most notorious in the history of Test cricket between Australia and England. David Frith's gripping narrative has been acclaimed as the definitive book on the whole saga: superbly researched and replete with anecdotes, Bodyline Autopsy is a masterly anatomy of one of the most remarkable sporting scandals.Trade Review'A brilliant book...it goes a long way to being the definitive tome on the subject. Outstandingly researched and extremely well written.' -- David Llewellyn Independent 'In David Frith's Bodyline Autopsy, we relive the crisis of 1932-33 that almost split the Empire...the well-sketched heroes and villains stand out in Frith's history; who says cricket is for gentlemen?' The Times 'Frith's account is packed with fascinating detail and anecdote. His description of the Test matches could hardly be more gripping.' -- Leo McKinstry Sunday Telegraph

Read more less

Book Synopsis''The funniest writer ever to put words to paper'' HUGH LAURIE_____________________________________________From his early days Wodehouse adored cricket and references to the game run like a golden thread though his writings. He not only wrote about this glorious British pastime, but also played it well, appearing six times at Lords, where his first captain was Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.Illustrated with wonderful drawings and contemporary score-sheets, Wodehouse at the Wicket is the first ever compendium of Wodehouse''s writings on cricket. Edited by cricket historian Murray Hedgcock, this delightful book also contains fascinating facts about Wodehouse''s cricketing career and how it is reflected in his work. The perfect gift for Wodehouse readers and fans of all things cricket._____________________________________''You don''t analyse such sunlit perfection, you just bask in its warmth and splendour'' Trade ReviewSublime comic genius -- Ben EltonP.G. Wodehouse wrote the best English comic novels of the century -- Sebastian FaulksThe funniest writer ever to put words to paper -- Hugh LaurieWitty and effortlessly fluid. His books are laugh-out-loud funny -- Arabella WeirCompulsory reading for anyone who has a pig, an aunt - or a sense of humour! -- Lindsey Davis

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this new anecdotal book, the unstoppable Dickie Bird takes one County Cricket Club at a time and revisits each with the aid of memorabilia, statistics, books and videos. A mass of new hilarious stories flow from Dickie as he flexes his memory: he describes the cricketers, the matches and the character of these clubs. Dickie also relives his journeys as a umpire to clubs and Test match arenas overseas and recalls the humorous times that have filled his unique career. A must have for cricket enthusiasts everywhere.Trade ReviewA delightful book...I defy anyone to read it without emotion * Daily Telegraph on DICKIE BIRD - MY AUTOBIOGRAPHY *For those who love tales from the pavilion bar, this book is a jolly good read * Independent on WHITE CAP AND BAILS *Humorous anecdotes abound * Yorkshire Evening Post on W C & B *An immense book...joyous and kindly * The Cricketer International on W C & B *An entertaining view of sport from the other side of the wicket * The Times *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThere are many cricket books, and they are all the same. ''Don''t Tell Goochie'', autobiographical insights of nights on the tiles in Delhi with Lambie and the boys; ''Fruit cake days'', a celebrated humourist recalls ''ball'' - related banter of yore; and Wisden, a deadly weapon when combined with a thermos flask. Rain Men is different. Like the moment the genius of Richie Benaud first revealed itself to you, it is a cricketing epiphany, a landmark in the literature of the game.Shining the light meter of reason into cricket''s incomparable madness, Marcus Berkmann illuminates all the obsessions and disappointments that the dedicated fan and pathologically hopeful clubman suffers year after year - the ritual humiliation of England''s middle order, the partially-sighted umpires, the battling average that reads more like a shoe size. As satisfying as a perfectly timed cover drive, and rather easier to come by, Rain Men offers essential justification for anyone who has ever runTrade ReviewThe Fever Pitch of cricket. Very funny * DAILY TELEGRAPH *Many thousands of cricketers will be able to identify with Marcus Berkmann's marvellous Rain Men. A masterpiece -- Sir Tim RiceA very funny book about some very sad men -- Ian HislopIt captures splendidly the many dazzingling facets of the truly atrocious cricketer * OBSERVER *For addicts with a low batting average - i.e. most cricket lovers * GUARDIAN *This wonderfully funny book reads like an inside account of a secret cult, its members tinged with guilt, shame and a curious defiant pride * INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY *Delightfully tongue in cheek * SUNDAY TELEGRAPH *

Read more less

Book SynopsisCricket defines Englishness like no other national pastime. From its earliest origins in the sixteenth century (or an early version played by shepherds called creag in the 1300s), through the formation of the MCC and the opening of Lord''s cricket ground in 1787, to the spread of county cricket in the next century, when the Wisden Cricketers'' Almanack was first published and the Ashes series was born, this simple sport of bat and ball has captured the imagination of the masses. Throughout its 500-year history, cricket has been a mirror for society as a whole, reflecting the changes that have brought us from the quintessential village green to Freddie Flintoff''s pedalo, from W G Grace to Monty Panesar, via a fair number of eccentrics, heroes and downright villains.William Hill Award-winning writer Simon Hughes, no mean player himself, has lived and breathed cricket his whole life and now takes his analytical skills and typically irreverent eye to charting theTrade ReviewExcellent and innovative * Richie Benaud *The culture and history of the game are amusingly brought out in an enormously jolly book by one of our best cricket writers, Simon Hughes. Its very title - And God Created Cricket - appropriately echoes the near-religious fervour with which many of us regard, or used to regard, the game. With his usual combination of authority and wit, Mr Hughes guides us through all the great tales of the game, from the earliest days to the present: a story he characterises as our having invented the game, and others having learned swiftly how to beat us at it -- Simon Heffer * Daily Telegraph *An appreciation of the past is more generally found among cricket devotees than those of any other sport, a fact understood perfectly by Simon Hughes in And God Created Cricket. Hughes takes us on a breathless tour through cricket history, the great players, personalities, matches and events. He never slackens pace or dwells on the dry details of the scoreboard; the next entertaining anecdote is always waiting in the next paragraph -- Richard Whitehead * The Times *A lively romp through cricketing history... Hughes is a spirited and entertaining guide through the vicissitudes of God's own sport... brilliant and hilarious -- Jim White * Daily Telegraph *Do we really need yet another history of cricket? Yes, if it's as perkily written as this. The former Middlesex quickie has strung the story of "the greatest game on earth" (his words, but we agree) together in entertaining, conversational manner, and he is as sound on players past as present and acute on some of today's greats... A fresh trip down a well-trodden path -- Simon Redfern * Independent on Sunday *

Read more less

Book SynopsisGreat stories of unusual happenings on and off the cricket field. The story of cricket is littered with big stories, like Bodyline, underarm balls and tycoons changing the game. But, like Tony Greig checking out the pitch with his keys, sometimes things fall through the cracks.Sticky Wickets takes a look at stories both big, small and perhaps forgotten. From bees and their dislike of cricket to a storm caused when a cameraman criticised a Test player's fielding. It's perfect to pick up when rain delays play.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisCombining reportage, anecdote, biography, history and personal recollection, A Last English Summer is an honest and passionate reflection on cricket''s past, present and future. In 2009 the county system looked directionless and obsolete; more than ever the players blessed with central contracts seemed apart from, rather than a part of, the domestic game; the home Ashes series was for the first time only available on pay-TV; and, of course, the juggernaut of Twenty20 threatened to flatten all but the Test form of the game, suggesting it may soon eclipse even that as well. Duncan Hamilton has preserved this seminal, convulsing season, which in years to come may be seen as a turning point in the history of cricket. In the process he embarks on a journey - often a deeply personal one - through the history and spirit of the game.Trade Review'[Hamilton's] passion and knowledge shine through... a rich and nostalgic read' Independent. * Independent *'A Last English Summer is above all a beautiful, affectionate and timely reminder that cricket still is - and will be - about one thing most of all: pleasure' Spectator. * Spectator *'The quality of his writing, so evident in his previous works, shines again' Mike Atherton, The Times. * The Times *'[A] book that achieves more than its ambitions. Hamilton, already the recipient of five prestigious book awards, can confidently expect more to follow for this lyrical, evocative but absolutely timely volume, a kind of travelogue through the English cricketing summer of 2009' Wisden. * Wisden *'It is a tribute to his skill that you are rapt even when he describes an under-19s match between teams you've never heard of. He can do this with games played last year... just as well as he can with matches played years ago' Daily Telegraph. * Daily Telegraph *Table of ContentsForeword: A Golden Age Sort of a Chap. Why Don't You Come Back When It's Less Busy? For the Islands, He Sang. Taking Tea with Neville Cardus. See the Conquering Hero Comes. And Still the Gas-Works. The Unbelievable Lightness of Fielding. Yes, I'll Remember Aigburth. He That Plays the King. Instead of a Telegram. It's a Clearing Shower in These Parts. On the Shoulders of Giants. Riding the Charabanc to Lord's. The Man in the Unmarked Grave. The Poet of Penrhyn Avenue. The Crimson Petal and the White. First Love, Last Love. A Moral Lesson From Lord Harris. The Captain in the Baggy Green. A Very Perfect Gentle Knight. Author Notes and Acknowledgements. Postscript. Statistics of Summer. Bibliography. Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE TELEGRAPH CRICKET BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD 2019 ''Beautifully written, meticulously researched and stuffed with rich sporting and social history ... Unputdownable'' Mail on Sunday After the Second World War, as the BBC tightened its grip on the national consciousness, two of the most famous English voices were commentators on games of cricket. John Arlott and E.W. (''Jim'') Swanton transformed the broadcasting of the nation's summer game into a national institution. Arlott and Swanton typified the contrasting aspects of post-war Britain. Because of their strong personalities and distinctive voices Swanton''s crisp and upper-class, Arlott''s with its Hampshire burr each had a loyal following. As England moved from a class-based to a more egalitarian society, nothing stayed the same including professional cricket. Wise, lively and filled with rich social and sporting history, Arlott, Swanton and the Soul of English Cricket shows how, as the gamTrade ReviewThose old enough will welcome a wonderful insight into the cricketing voices of their childhood. Arlott, Swanton and the Soul of English Cricket reflects upon two titans of cricket journalism and broadcasting. Youngsters can discover them for the first time. Stephen Fay and David Kynaston combine seamlessly to produce a gem of a book -- Vic Marks * Observer 'Books of the Year' *Magnificent … One of the best cricket books I’ve read in years: it makes long-forgotten matches live and breathe as though they were played yesterday -- Marcus Berkmann * Daily Mail 'Books of the Year' *A chronicle of 20th-century class difference, elegantly observed through the lives of the two men and their attitudes towards their beloved sport -- Emma John * Guardian 'Books of the Year' *A wonderfully readable and illuminating account of the game in the last half of the 20th century … Beautifully written, meticulously researched and stuffed with rich sporting and social history, this must already be a candidate for Sports Book of the Year. Unputdownable -- Michael Simkins * Mail on Sunday *A triumph … [Kynaston and Fay] both have inside-outside sensitivities that keep this near-seamless collaboration shrewd, worldly, balanced and fresh * Times Literary Supplement *[A] delightful and thoughtful book … A nostalgic delight * Standpoint *John Arlott and EW Swanton defined cricket commentary in the second half of the 20th century … As this wonderful biography shows, they were united by their love of the spirit of cricket, and stood together in resisting anything that compromised it, from bullying moguls to racism * Daily Telegraph *An important account of English cricket through the post-war decades from the glorious summer of 1947 to one-day cricket and Packer … Cricket has always produced literature that weaves together sport and society and this book certainly presents an insight into post-war England that reaches far beyond the boundary rope * Country Life *A historian of peerless sensitivity and curiosity about the lives of individuals -- Praise for David Kynaston * Financial Times *John Arlott and EW Swanton were the voices of English cricket for much of the post-war years. This insightful, provocative book gently teases out the differences in their styles, backgrounds and personalities and shows why all this mattered in a society defined by class and in a sport riven by it -- Hugh MacDonald * Herald *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA TIMES SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR''A treasure of recollections and reactions, talking heroes, controversies and big themes'' i paper''Brearley is at his best in these quirky, delightful essays when he is exploring the human qualities of humbler players . . . Brearley''s admiration for his friends'' decency, craftsmanship and modesty seems to recall a golden age of country cricket'' The Times''Brearley has a knack for paying respect to the past without denigrating the present and for calmly considering the future'' Mail on SundayMike Brearley was arguably one of England''s finest cricket captains; not just for his outstanding record leading his country but also for the way he orchestrated, during the 1981 Ashes series, one of the most extraordinary reversals in sporting history.In this collection of sparkling essays, Brearley reflects on the game he has come to know so well. He ranges from tTrade ReviewFascinating * Choice *Delightful new book . . . Brearley has a knack for paying respect to the past without denigrating the present and for calmly considering the future * Mail on Sunday *Brearley is at his best in these quirky, delightful essays when he is exploring the human qualities of humbler players . . . Brearley's admiration for his friends' decency, craftsmanship and modesty seems to recall a golden age of county cricket * The Times *Brearley speaks with understated authority on the matter. His words are all the more powerful for that * Sunday Express *A treasure of recollections and reactions, talking heroes, controversies and big themes * i paper *Brearley has a gentle, measured intellect that is warming and intriguing rather than intimidating or irritating . . . Brearley has a rare ability to read the game and its participants with delicacy and precision, like a tailor unpicking a collection of knotted threads * Wisden Cricket Monthly *His relaxed, dextrous, style achieves what most authors aspire to do: make their narrative sound as though they're speaking directly to the reader . . . His cumulative experience, humour and honesty make for a compelling read. Let's hope for a second volume of On Cricket * Dorset Echo *A book full of wisdom and sharp observation * Association of Cricket Statisticians and Historians *Brearley is best when writing about character and thought processes * King Cricket *His cumulative experience, humour and honesty make for a compelling read * Birmingham Post *Mike Brearley is a cultured and intelligent man . . . able elegantly to assess his colleagues and predecessors, as he does with customary grace in his latest volume -- Robert Crampton * The Times *A box of delights containing bitesize pieces on colourful individuals, burning issues and memorable events -- Shomit Dutta * Times Literary Supplement *

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Worth its weight in gold'' Indian Cricket Stats JournalThe Wisden Book of Test Cricket, first published in 1979, is well established as an invaluable and unique source of reference essential to any cricket library. This new volume includes full coverage of every Test match from late 2014 to the end of the 2019 season in England. Each Test match features Wisden''s own scorecard, a detailed match report, details of debutants, close of play scores, umpires and referees, with number of appearances, and Man of the Match winners. Also included is a complete individual Test Career Records section and player index.Edited by Steven Lynch, this new volume brings collectors'' libraries up to date, ensuring they have a complete and accurate record - essential for any truly self-respecting cricket enthusiast.Trade ReviewFascinating ... attractively produced ... meticulous. A massive source of reference, worth its weight in gold. * Indian Cricket Stats Journal *Painstakingly researched and brilliantly compiled * Rajesh Kumar, Cricket statistician *

Read more less

Book SynopsisFor over half a century, Henry Blofeld has conveyed his unfailing enthusiasm for the game of cricket as a much loved broadcaster and journalist. His characteristically patrician tones, overlaid with those of the bon viveur, have delighted listeners to the BBC''s Test Match Special where the personality of the broadcaster comes second only to a deep knowledge of the game and its players. With his engaging conversational tone it is easy to see why listeners feel as if they are actually at the Test match watching in Henry''s friendly company. Now that ''Blowers'' has decided to declare his TMS innings closed, his book reveals the secrets of life in the commentary box and of the rich cast of characters with whom he shared it, from the early days of John Arlott and Brian Johnson to Aggers and new boys Boycott, Swann, Vaughan and Tuffers. Henry is equally revealing of his own performances and self-deprecatingly recalls his several verbal misfortunes while live broadcasting.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'Is there anything in sport to compare with the sustained excitement of a cricket match, especially a Test match, in which the advantage continually fluctuates one way and then the other, and when the match enters its last few minutes, all four results are still possible?'After entertaining countless radio listeners around the world for decades, who better to convey the breathless drama of a Test match cliffhanger than Henry Blofeld? Now, in Ten to Win . . . and the Last Man In, he has personally selected thirty matches featuring unforgettable finishes and brought them vividly to life again in his own inimitable way.Ranging from the match-winning bowling of F.R. Spofforth against W.G. Grace's England in 1882, via the first tied Test between Benaud's Australia and Worrell's West Indies in 1960, to the never-say-die batting of Ben Stokes in 2019, he picks out the key events and performances of each memorable match and describes them as only he can.Alongside the big-hitting heroics of Jessop in 1902 and Botham in 1981, he revisits less celebrated matches such as South Africa's hard-fought first Test win in 1906, as well as a crucial innings from Denis Compton in 1948 and a match-saving performance by a young Alan Knott in Guyana in 1968 - one of the most exciting matches he has ever witnessed first-hand.Filled with colourful detail and informed by insight gained from a lifetime immersed in the sport he loves, Henry Blofeld's latest book will leave the reader in no doubt - as he himself puts it - about 'what an absurdly irresistible game cricket can be'.Trade ReviewThis will be a hot item for the cricket lover this Christmas and deservedly so * Cricket Web *

Read more less

Book Synopsis*A MULTIPLE AWARD-WINNING SPORTS WRITER*'Hamilton's book is a marvel . . . I'm not sure he could write a dull sentence if he tried' Spectator One of Duncan Hamilton's favourite writers on cricket, Edmund Blunden, wrote how he felt going to watch a game: 'You arrive early, earlier even than you meant . . . and you feel a little guilty at the thought of the day you propose to give up to sheer luxury'.Following Neville Cardus's assertion that 'there can be no summer in this land without cricket', Hamilton plotted the games he would see in 2019 and write down reflectively on some of the cricket that blessed his own sight. It would be captured in the context of the coming season in case subsequent summers and the imminent arrival of The Hundred made that impossible. He would write in the belief that after this season the game might never be quite the same again.He visits Welbeck Colliery Cricket Club to see Nottinghamshire play Hampshire at the tiny ground of Sookholme, gifted to the club by a local philanthropist who takes money on the gate; his village team at Menston in Yorkshire; the county ground at Hove; watches Ben Stokes's heroics at Headingley, marvels at Jofra Archer's gift of speed in a Second XI fixture for Sussex against Gloucestershire in front of 74 people and three well-behaved dogs; and realises when he reaches the last afternoon of the final county match of the season at Taunton, 'How blessed I am to have been born here. How I never want to live anywhere else. How much I love cricket.'One Long and Beautiful Summer forms a companion volume to Hamilton's 2009 classic, A Last English Summer. It is sports writing at its most accomplished and evocative, confirming his reputation as the finest contemporary chronicler of the game. Trade ReviewDuncan Hamilton has written some of the best books about sport in recent years. All lovers of cricket will love this book. You could say that Hamilton has done it again. -- Michael Henderson, on The Great Romantic * The Cricketer *Brilliantly expresses the passion that millions like him, in pursuit of happiness and belonging, feel for the beautiful game. Simply magnificent -- on Going to the Match * Mail on Sunday *Hamilton is a worthy biographer -- on The Great Romantic * The Times *A wonderfully languorous piece of time travel back to the so-called Golden Age of cricket -- on The Great Romantic * Guardian *Hamilton has achieved the difficult task of humanising an icon while clearing the rubbish away from his plinth -- on The Great Romantic * The Hindu *Duncan Hamilton is already a multiple award-winning sports writer, but it is hard to imagine he will write a better book than this superb, elegiac portrait of . . . Cardus -- on The Great Romantic * Daily Mail *Rich in observation * The Cricketer *

Read more less