Cricket Books

Book SynopsisWelcome to The Periodic Table of Cricket. Here you'll find the essential elements - batsmen and bowlers past and present - that have left a lasting legacy on this great sport.As with chemical elements, these international personalities have been arranged based on their characteristics in and out of play. Instead of metals and non-metals, here we have patient and determined defensive players, from Jack Hobbs to Hanif Mohammad and Alastair Cook transitioning to fast-paced and attacking players including Shane Warne, Fred Trueman and 'white lightning' Allan Donald with a whole host of others in between.See how the best international players stack up against each other in this original guide to cricket.

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Book SynopsisA biography of John Wisden, a key figure in the development of cricket in the middle of the nineteenth century.

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Book SynopsisTim Quelch takes a nostalgic look back on a 60s childhood and early adulthood immersed in Sussex sport. Hastings United, Brighton & Hove Albion and Sussex County Cricket Club were his three great loves, his passion for football ignited by United's plucky 1953/54 giant-killing side that came tantalisingly close to a fifth-round FA Cup clash with Arsenal. Later, Brighton secured Tim's lasting loyalty when he witnessed their brave 1961 FA Cup battle with First Division champions Burnley. That same year, Tim was captivated by explosive Sussex batsman Ted Dexter and mesmerised by West Indian fast bowler Wes Hall. Good Old Sussex by the Sea takes us on a whirlwind tour of the highs and lows of Sussex football and cricket in the 1960s, a time when local allegiances counted and expectations of success were more modest. But it was hardly an age of innocence as Hastings United's involvement in a major police corruption scandal shows. The book recalls a rollercoaster ride of triumphs and woes, bringing to life many local heroes of yesteryear.

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Book SynopsisA Corner of Every Foreign Field is an innovative and thought-provoking take on the history of cricket, looking beyond the scorecards to the pivotal issues of class, politics and imperialism that have shaped the game today. It charts how cricket has vied with football for power, commercial muscle and global reach, growing from a simple boys' game in England to a modern worldwide sport. In exploring cricket's evolution, Tim Brooks calls on the views and anecdotes of greats like W. G. Grace, Don Bradman, Viv Richards and Virat Kohli. Along the way, he peers deep into the game's soul and poses questions on behalf of every cricket fan. Is cricket truly global? Why did the game take root in some countries but not in others? What are the threats and opportunities for the sport? Who are the next cricket superpowers? How do you strike a balance between honouring tradition and reforming to capture the imagination of future generations? Written by an expert in the global development of cricket, the book sets out a unique vision for the future.Trade Review"As histories of the game go A Corner of Every Foreign Field has a number of advantages. First of all it is just about as up to date as it can be. Perhaps more important however is the simple fact that it is well written and avoids the standard cliches. The book should appeal to anyone with an interest in cricket history, even those, like this reviewer, who fondly believe that they already know a thing or two about that particular subject. In short it is well worth investing in, and is highly recommended." -- Martin Chandler * CricketWeb.net *

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Book SynopsisNever Surrender: The Life of Douglas Jardine is the enthralling story of England's most controversial cricket captain, forever associated with bodyline bowling on MCC's tour to Australia in 1932/33. Despite his privileged upbringing and amateur status, Jardine's steely personality and win-at-all-costs ethos was more akin to the professional game. Confronted with the run-making genius of Australia's Don Bradman in 1932/33, Jardine resorted to a form of intimidatory bowling that helped England regain the Ashes, but his tactics shocked Australia and brought relations between the two countries to the point of collapse. To restore harmony, Jardine was disowned by the MCC cricket establishment and shunned thereafter, but now - in a more modern, competitive age - his reputation has undergone a rehabilitation, not least in Australia. Drawing on fresh material, award-winning cricket author Mark Peel reappraises an outstanding leader whose care for those he valued knew no bounds.

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Book SynopsisThe Colours of Cricket showcases the finest photos of award-winning cricket photographer Philip Brown. In a prestigious 30-year career, Brown has captured 250 Test matches, numerous World Cups and other competitions around the world. Growing up in sports-mad Australia, he fell in love with cricket and photography at a young age and has spent most of his life shooting some of the most memorable moments in the history of the game and the characters who made them. This beautiful book features eye-catching images of some of the biggest names in cricket - stars such as Shane Warne, Brian Lara, Kevin Pietersen, Steve Waugh and Sachin Tendulkar. But beyond the celebrities Philip also has an eye for the people and places he has seen along the way. The Colours of Cricket documents the changing face of the sport over five decades, taking us on a nostalgic trip through time. Featuring more than 340 of Brown's favourite images, this is a stunning pictorial celebration that every cricket fan will treasure.

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Book SynopsisEbony Rainford-Brent is a cricket legend and multi-award-winning TV presenter and broadcaster. The first black woman to represent England at cricket, she shattered barriers and paved the way for greater inclusivity in the game, and is now a regular commentator on Test Match Special for the BBC and Sky. From her first game at primary school to her insightful analysis as an international cricket commentator, she's become a role model for aspiring players and fans alike.

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Book SynopsisWidely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers in the history of cricket, Shane Warne was a giant of his time. A sporting hero and national icon, young cricketers today are inspired by his leg spin legacy.Perhaps the most charismatic personality of any sport, Shane Warne's triumphs restored craft and subtlety to the foreground of the game. Taking the highest number of Test wickets when he retired – 708 at 25.14 apiece, he was chosen by Wisden as one of the five outstanding players of the 20th century. The rebel who used his injury in his early years to build strength in his wrists and upper body, his unwavering optimism and unassailable competitive spirit became a defining feature of the leading man of cricket.Packed with quotes and insights The Little Book of Shane Warne explores the man who, by unanimous consent, pitched the ball of the century, and earned his place in the pantheon of exceptional players.'He was the best of them all and you can't say any more than that.' Michael Parkinson'People put down their beer every time Shane Warne came on to bowl.' Ian ChappellTable of ContentsShane Warne on the Way Up: Childhood accidents and teenage rejections to ten-pint nights and a lot of hard work. Shane Warne on the Ashes: From the Ball of the Century to the art of sledging and everything inbetween. Shane Warne on Cricket: The smartest captain Australia never had, Shane Warne on the game he loved. Shane Warne on Leg Spin: Big hands, strong wrists and an abundance of natural talent. Shane Warne on Life: Making friends and winning respect, the streetwise king who did it his own way. Life on Shane Warne: Thoughts and messages of love and respect from around the world.

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Book SynopsisLaker and Lock is the first dual biography of Surrey and England 'spin twins' Jim Laker and Tony Lock, who helped their county and Test teams to an unparalleled run of dominance in the 1950s. Besides their peerless achievements on the field, the two men had little in common. Laker, the elder by seven years, was Yorkshire born, cool, phlegmatic, known to sulk, and not greatly enamoured with the class distinctions then inherent in English cricket and society as a whole. Lock, a southerner, was dynamic, ebullient, indefatigable both on and off the field, and tended to wear his heart on his sleeve, an attitude no less at odds with the prevailing social order. Both men courted controversy. Laker's post-retirement autobiography caused such a furore that he was made unwelcome at Lord's and the Oval for years afterwards. Lock suffered the stigma of being labelled a 'chucker' and ultimately moved to Australia, where his retirement was clouded by allegations of sexual abuse. This is the full story of the pair's uneasy partnership.

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Book SynopsisSwallows and Hawke is a captivating account of 80 years of compelling cricket. From South Africa's stunning first ever Test win by one wicket in 1907 to Syd Barnes and Herby Taylor locked in iconic combat in 1914, to Cliff Gladwin's scrambled last-ball victory in 1949, all the standout moments are here. On the pitch, the cricketers faced extreme heat and dust, unplayable wickets and a wily and resilient opposition. Off the pitch they inspected mining compounds, were terrified by Zulu dancers and found themselves in jail or chased by rhinos. Over 15 tours the emissaries of Empire bestrode the pavilions of power with mine-owners and politicians, from Kruger to Verwoerd. They turned a blind eye to oppression and resistance and colluded with a new national mythology of white supremacy featuring ox-wagons and Blood River. The cricketing dramas take place within the perennial African struggles over land, labour and freedom as the cricketing relationship between MCC and South Africa forges the bonds of Empire.Trade Review"The book rightfully places itself in the tradition of Mike Marqusee, Ramachandra Guha and Derek Birley. Packed with detail." * The Cricketer's Best Books of 2023 *"Did you think there was nothing more to be said about the D'Oliveira affair? Richard Parry and Andre Odendaal would persuade you otherwise. [Their] new account of Anglo-South African cricket promises 'Exciting new evidence of the unfolding of the D'Oliveira saga...' The authors deliver on that promise." * Journal of the Cricket Society *"Already I am regretting not giving more space to Swallows and Hawke, in which Richard Parry and Andre Odendaal evaluate 15 English tours to South Africa. That title was yet another triumph for Pitch, one of the proudly independent publishers who serve the game so well." -- Paul Edwards * The Cricketer *"This important book is a 'must read' for anyone with an interest in the history of Test Cricket between England and South Africa... One of the strengths of Swallows and Hawke is the ability to look at the social history of the time and the changes that took place. This one is highly recommended." -- Martin Chandler * Cricket Web *

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Book SynopsisAll-India and Down Under is the dramatic story of two cricket tours undertaken in the aftermath of the Second World War. For seven years the war had put the careers of England’s cricketers on hold. Then, in 1946, England played three Tests against ‘All-India’. However, it proved to be the last such tour: by mid-1947, Indian partition had cut the country in two, a process that was violent and bloody. While the tourists were in England, struggling in a cold, wet summer, their own country was in turmoil. As that tour drew to a close in September, the MCC sent a party of war-weary cricketers to Australia to play the first Ashes series since 1938. The English were ill-prepared, some scarcely out of uniform, while others carried the physical and mental scars of the war years. For the aging captain, Walter Hammond, it would prove a tour too far. The book follows the cricketing drama of both tours amid the political uncertainty of the time, with a Labour government struggling to disentangle Britain from its Empire.Trade Review"The book is so well written and, whilst All-India and Down Under: Peace, Partition and the Game of Cricket is Knott’s first on cricket, let us hope there are more to come." -- Martin Chandler * CricketWeb.net *

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Book SynopsisYorkshire Grit: The Life of Ray Illingworth is a fascinating account of one of English cricket's most outstanding figures told by award-winning writer Mark Peel. Raised in the harsh world of Yorkshire cricket, Illingworth's all-round ability and tactical acumen made him an indispensable member of their great sides of the 1950s and 60s. Leaving Yorkshire in 1968, he went on to captain Leicestershire to unprecedented success, and also became one of England's finest captains and the first man since Douglas Jardine nearly 40 years earlier to regain the Ashes in Australia. Yet for all his success on the field, Illingworth's attritional tactics and refusal to compromise made him a controversial figure. His return to Yorkshire as manager was marred by a clash with Geoff Boycott, while his time as England's chairman of selectors and manager saw clashes with Mike Atherton and other top players. In this first biography of Illingworth for nearly 50 years, Peel reappraises a dominant personality who never shied away from controversy.Trade Review"Illingworth a great all-rounder and a great all-round biography." -- Mark Watkins * Dare Radio *"This is one I would definitely recommend." -- Steve Dolman * Peak Fan Blog *"Peel, whose previous biographies include the likes of England's cricket captain Douglas Jardine and the politician Shirley Williams, knows his market and ,as such, the first reputable biography of Illingworth is a respectful work, a conventional and fair-minded run through his life which would have delighted the man himself." -- David Hopps * The Cricketer *"Mark Peel has done cricket lovers a favour with his balanced account of the different perspectives. The author has been nominated for less well-crafted books, and his publisher has served him well." -- Douglas Miller * Association of Cricket Statisticians *"In many ways the measure of the quality of a biography is how long it takes to read, and even if Yorkshire Grit hadn’t arrived during a mini heatwave I have no doubt I would still have been unable to make it last more than two days. It is an excellent book and reminded me of many things that I had forgotten, and also made sense of aspects of Illingworth’s life that I had previously struggled to put in their proper context... and there is a good selection of photographs and an index." -- Martin Chandler * Cricketweb.net *"Yorkshire Grit: The Life of Ray Illingworth, by Mark Peel and published by Pitch, is a splendid readable biography of the Yorkshire and England legend." -- Chris Waters * Yorkshire Evening Post *"Illy’s remarkable career, loving told by master biographer Mark Peel." -- Ken Piesse * Pavilion, the Australian Cricket Society Magazine *

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Book SynopsisThe Last Corinthian: The Cricketing Life of MJK Smith is the story of the illustrious cricketing career of Mike Smith, one of England's most popular captains. At Oxford he broke records by scoring centuries in each of his three Varsity matches and captained the team in his final year. He was appointed captain of Warwickshire at the age of 23, and captain of England six years later. Predominantly a leg-side player, he was a prolific run scorer in county cricket, and also an outstanding fielder at short-leg. Mike played in 50 Test matches and led several successful overseas tours. His democratic approach, modesty, integrity and unfailing good humour made him one of England's most admired captains. Mike is England's only living double international, having played rugby for England against Wales in 1956. The book draws on extensive interviews with Mike to tell his story, as well as eyewitness accounts and anecdotes from former team-mates and opponents, including Sir Geoffrey Boycott, Dennis Amiss and Bob Barber.Trade Review"A warm and detailed biography... and ...an engaging and worthwhile read." -- Brian Halford * The Cricketer Magazine *"One of the strengths of the book is that it is as much about MJK the man as it is about the cricketer... MJK’s two trips to the sub-continent, in 1961/62 and 1963/64, never were the subject of books, and no one has written at length about England’s tours to the Caribbean in 1959/60, South Africa in 1964/65 and Australian in 1965/66 since those series took place. So this one is a valuable book simply for examining those long forgotten ventures, particularly as that is done with input from MJK and others... the book is well illustrated, and has a decent index. For anyone interested in English cricket in the 1960s the book is certainly recommended." -- Martin Chandler * Cricketweb.net *"I particularly enjoyed the account of the 1965-66 Ashes series, one that has not gone down in the annals of the game as one of the best, but which from reading this account was often closely contested, and played for the most part in a good and enterprising spirit... Although cricketing biographies, especially those that focus on the playing career, can all too easily fail to capture the personality of the subject, this is a not an accusation that can be levelled at Mike Thompson’s book. He has succeeded in his aim to deliver an account of Mike Smith on the cricket field, and in so doing has also captured the sometimes enigmatic but always appealing personality of one of England’s finest post-war players." -- Richard Lawrence * Association of Cricket Statisticians *"Mike Thompson is to be congratulated on the depth and breadth of his research into his distinguished subject’s career from captaincy of Oxford to leadership of the Warwickshire and England teams. I found some of the footnotes on Mike's Oxford teammates particularly fascinating. Thompson has interviewed and corresponded with a host of Smith’s fellow players and contemporaries in both the county and international game... and built up a significant relationship with his subject... [it] gives a feeling of intimacy and reality to the narrative. Thoroughly recommended to all interested in the career of a great cricketer." -- Norman Crampton * Member of MCC and ex-Member Yorkshire and Somerset *

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Book SynopsisSet during Kerry Packer's World Series Cricket revolution, this book tells the story of the Australian Test cricketers plucked from the backwaters of the domestic game to take on full-strength international sides.Some became cricketing greats. Others were lost in the footnotes of history. But all have important stories to share.From 1977/78 to the reconciliation, two Australian sides competed in parallel universes: World Series Cricket's glamorous rock star realm and the attritional reality of Test cricket fought by predominantly younger, poorly paid men honouring the baggy green. Friendships were broken, and new bonds formed, as the public first sided with the traditional game before backing World Series Cricket in greater numbers.Kerry Packer eventually won the cricketing war. However, Test cricket survived because of those who carried the Australian banner for the game. These players became known as the 'Establishment Boys' and until now they have barely been acknowledged.

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Book SynopsisGetting Outis the story of how Ukraine''s cricketers helped the people around them to escape from Russia''s invasion in 2022, including first-hand accounts of the war.?Cricket in Ukraine had a surprising and eccentric history. But when the bombings started, these cricketers found themselves in a fight for their lives as they rushed to the front lines to defend their country.Meanwhile, some Ukrainian refugees had an altogether different battle as they began to play cricket in a park in southern Europe, and fought to keep their country's cricketing heritage alive.As well as eyewitness accounts of the first days of the war, the book holds many light-hearted stories from the team where no one wanted to bat or bowl, to the biofuel developer who became Ukraine''s first professional cricketer.It's a story of courage, determination and hope, both on and off the field.

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Book SynopsisCricket''s Hard Men takes an innovative look at character, psychology and mental health in cricket to produce a fascinating study of the sport''s toughest players.So, what actually constitutes a hard man of cricket? The truth is there is no simple definition. Whether it''s resilience to defy injury from players like Kepler Wessels, Mike Atherton and Allan Border; sheer physicality from cricketer turned cage fighter Adam Hollioake; the bloody-mindedness to snub tradition by Douglas Jardine and John Reid; a chest-thumping need from Arjuna Ranatunga to show pride for a flag that had a reputation of being soft in the cricket world; or the blind courage of Brian Close, each player has his own unique story, told here through in-depth research and exclusive interviews.The author consulted prominent ex-cricketers and broadcasters before studying this select band, from Australia, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, the West Indies an

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Book SynopsisAlmost Invincible is the story of the West Indies in the 1980s, one of the greatest teams in Test cricket history, at their brilliant best.During the English summer of 1984, captain Clive Lloyd had an array of all-time greats within the ranks, including Viv Richards, Gordon Greenidge, Malcolm Marshall, Michael Holding, Desmond Haynes, Joel Garner, Jeffrey Dujon and others.Facing an England team in transition but still possessing skipper David Gower, star all-rounder Ian Botham and the in-form batsman Allan Lamb, the West Indies followed a series victory over Australia with a 5-0 win in England, a series that was famously nicknamed the ''Blackwash''.The book examines all the side-stories connected with the tour - from the ridiculously frenetic schedule to the closely fought one-day series, from the county tour matches to the intricate details of the five Tests. Author Richard Sydenham has spoken to many of the central characters and reflects on the

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Book SynopsisForgotten Pioneers tells the extraordinary tale of the world''s first professional women cricketers. Founded in 1890, the ''Original English Lady Cricketers'' played exhibition matches all over Britain. Enormous crowds flocked to see them and sceptical journalists were gradually won over by their obvious skill. However, the women were more than just cricketers: most evenings, they performed in local theatres and music halls, singing, dancing, fencing and putting on acrobatic displays.But after their triumphant first season, something went wrong; midway through 1891 the organisation collapsed acrimoniously. Although poor weather and changes in personnel played a part, there was a strong suspicion of fraud by the team''s (largely male) managers. A court case followed in 1892 and the OELC vanished from the headlines.As women''s cricket continues to reach new heights in the 21st century, this book tells the story of the forerunners of today''s professi

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Book SynopsisLost Cricket Stickers brings you the inside story of the 1983 cricket season, locating lost heroes and discovering their journeys with the help of a Panini sticker album.1983 was a pivotal year for cricket. India won the World Cup and England lost to New Zealand at home, both for the first time. There was a 35-minute century and a 14 all out. Yorkshire came bottom of the Championship (and won the John Player League), while South Africa tour rebels, banned from playing for England, dominated the county game. Thatcher won a landslide election victory post-Falklands.This is a warm, funny and insightful tale of tracking down a fondly remembered player from each county, each with his unique take on then and now. The book is based on the only cricket sticker album of the era.Four decades on, the county game has transformed. The Hundred and video analysis have replaced the John Player League and pub sessions after a long day in the field. But is that for

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Book SynopsisThe Batmaker of Copenhagen is the inspiring story of a cricketing hero who defied the German occupation to keep cricket alive throughoutthe Nazi occupation of Denmark during the Second World War.With Copenhagen under the iron grip of the Gestapo, and German U-boats preventing any supplies coming in from England, a humble cricket scorer sets out on an improbable and dangerous quest to find willow and produce his own cricket bats.Scouring the length and breadth of the country, hounded by Gestapo spies, and risking everything for the game he loves, the ''Batmaker'' undertakes his mission under the very noses of the city''s oppressors.His nemesis, a Gestapo chief by the name of ''Lucifer'', begins a quest of his own to crush the resistance in a battle of wills that shapes the course of the war. Based on a true story, this uplifting tale of passion and patriotism brings cricket and espionage together in a unique and gripping t

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Book SynopsisYou could argue that Dennis Amiss’ seven-decade cricket career started the day he was born, when his parents named him after not one but two celebrated cricketers.Or maybe it started when he was 7, sneaking into the Birmingham Cooperative Society to play a few matches with his friends – as long as they avoided the groundskeeper!Or perhaps it was on 7 April 1958; not only his fifteenth birthday, but also his first day as a professional cricketer.Whatever day you start on, there’s no denying that Amiss has had an extraordinary career. He is one of England’s cricketing greats, with 100 first-class hundreds to his name and a place as one of Wisden’s Cricketers of the Year. Hugely well-respected on and off the pitch, he didn’t shy away from controversy, taking part in the 1982 ‘Rebel Tour’ of Apartheid South Africa, and somehow ending up in the midst of the battle between World Series Cricket and the England Cricket Board.Not Out at Close of Play is the story of how passion, commitment and practice – and no small amount of stubbornness! – took a boy from the backstreets of Birmingham to worldwide cricket stardom.Trade ReviewDennis was not only one of the finest batsmen of his generation, he was a cricket innovator and influencer who then also went on to become a very successful administrator at the highest levels of the game. He has been a huge influence on the direction of my own career and I am extremely grateful to him for all of his support. -- Ashley Giles MBE MSDDennis is a Warwickshire legend on and off the field. One of best batters of his generation, he set the standard for players to follow. He was a hero of mine growing up and now I have the pleasure of calling him my friend. -- Ian Bell MBE

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Book SynopsisCricket Champions is an enthralling account of the summer of 1966, a time of many memorable sporting performances. Above all it was a time when the West Indies showed they were a remarkable team led by Garry Sobers, a truly outstanding cricketer.

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Book SynopsisDo They Play Cricket in Ireland? is the endearing story of driven players and officials who wanted to compete with the best. From worrying about Gibraltar to worrying Australia, David Townsend tells how the Boys in Green took the world by storm, beating Pakistan, England and West Indies on the way to a Test at Lord's.

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Book SynopsisEveryone's image of the ideal cricket ground will be a village field, fringed by trees, the outfield dappled with clovers and buttercups, swallows flitting above... And what of all the other wildlife associated with this most natural of sports? At the Oval these days, Test Match Special's commentators remark on the resident foxes as often as the traditional pigeons. At Teddington Town CC in London's Bushy Park matches are frequently interrupted by incursions of deer; at Lyndhurst in the New Forest by wild ponies. At Kirkby Lonsdale CC in Cumbria the local fungus group found 20 species of waxcap on the outfield. For some reason hoopoes, spectacular orange and black-crested birds from southern Europe, favour cricket grounds on their rare migrations to the UK. This unique, funny, delightful cricket book from left field explores the relationship between cricket grounds and the natural world, from wildlife records to the Edwardian cricket writings of Edmund Blunden, and in many remarkable photos.Trade Review'Excellent', Simon Burnton, Guardian; 'A wonderfully illustrated, jovially written and insightful piece of work', Country Life; 'A delightful tome that looks at cricket from a different angle, highlights its intrinsic link with the natural world and proves soothing amid the concrete-dominated world of stadium cricket. After society's rediscovery of the natural world during Covid-induced lockdowns, the book is arguably being released at a timely juncture', Yahoo over Cow Corner blog; ‘A very nice book indeed, and a wonderful concept. Nature and cricket are among life’s greatest joys – to combine them is sublime,’ Simon Barnes; ‘This book was not what I expected … a book describing the flora and fauna of cricket grounds. And all the better for it. Certainly the chapters are titled as such … but they are only used by the author to indicate his feeling that cricket is losing its connection to our environment, as it changes its own “nature” as it attempts to compete in a profit-seeking world. Coster has done a great job. The book is full of humour with enjoyable cricket anecdotes, supported by excellent photographs … I enjoyed this book a lot.’ Jayne Hancock, Journal of the Cricket Society; ‘An excellent book’, Lev Parikian; ‘“Delightful” [is] not an adequate word to apply to this wonderful book,’ The Cricket Statistician

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Book Synopsis*WINNER OF THE 2023 SPORTS BOOK AWARDS SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT BOOK OF THE YEAR**FOREWORD BY BEN STOKES*Hallo - I'm Mark Wood. As an England and Durham cricketer who was born, raised and refined in Ashington, Northumberland, my life has been quite unique. Over the course of my career so far, I've won an Ashes and a World Cup in an international career that at the time of writing is going on seven years and counting. Being a fast bowler like myself is up there with the toughest of all sporting pursuits, like being Tyson Fury's punchbag or working behind the bar during the darts at Ally Pally.Being a cricketer? There's nothing like it. And doing it for England? Well, I'm lucky to call it a profession. There's been a lot of hard work along the way. Plenty of sacrifices and pain to accompany the good times that make them all worthwhile.I've been everywhere, from Barbados to Brisbane, Chester-le-Street to Chennai, waiting rooms to operating tables. I've played in some of the most exotic locations in the world and eaten margherita pizzas in every single one of them. To be honest, it's amazing I've waited this long to bring out my own self-help book.Trade ReviewA self-help manual laced with simple humour, homespun wisdom and an insight into the England cricket machine. -- Richard Hobson * The Cricketer *Table of Contentsi: Foreword by Ben Stokes ii: Introduction 1: How to Celebrate 2: How to Kill Time 3: How to Be Fast 4: How to Love 5: How to Travel 6: How to Stay Healthy 7: How to Keep Level 8: How to Be True to Yourself 9: Q & A x: Epilogue: Mark Wood, A Second Opinion by Miles Jupp

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Book SynopsisWhen Len Hutton led the MCC to the Caribbean in 1953/54, the series was billed as the 'world championship of cricket' and described later as the most controversial since Bodyline. Who Only Cricket Know provides the first full-length account of this extraordinary tour, where a rollercoaster of a Test series was only half the story.

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE CRICKET SOCIETY AND MCC BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD 2020The much-loved former England player, Guardian cricket correspondent and TMS broadcaster tells the story of his life in cricket for the first time.In April 1974 new recruits Viv Richards, Ian Botham, Peter Roebuck and Vic Marks reported for duty at Somerset County Cricket Club. Apart from Richards, 'all of us were eighteen years old, though Botham seemed to have lived a bit longer - or at least more vigorously - than the rest.'In this irresistible memoir of a life lived in cricket, Vic Marks returns to the heady days when Richards and Botham were young men yet to unleash their talents on the world stage while he and Roebuck looked on in awe. After the high-octane dramas of Somerset, playing for England was almost an anti-climax for Marks, who became an unlikely all-rounder in the mercurial side of the 1980s. Moving from the dressing room to the press box, with trenchant observations about the modern game along the way, Original Spin is a charmingly wry, shrewdly observed account of a golden age in cricket.Trade ReviewA lovely read: self-written and thus well-written; authentic, genial and full of good anecdotes -- Matthew Engel * New Statesman *[Marks] must be cricket's most avuncular man, a warm, wry presence in voice and print. His memoir has those qualities too, as well as being deeply English, deeply modest...Marks' real gift as writer and broadcaster is an eye for human detail...this is a memoir in Vic Marks' image, and offers joy and solace in plentiful measures. -- Jon Hotten * Wisden Cricket Monthly *[Marks] is unfailingly courteous, friendly and knowledgable. His autobiography does absolutely nothing to dispel that impression. He tells his story in an engaging style... * Cricket Web *Elegantly written and...often gently penetrating in its judgements. * Country Life *There are some great anecdotes as well as a revealing account of his relationship with former Somerset skipper Peter Roebuck * Choice *a sunny and modest read * Literary Review *Table of Contents1: Taunton 1974 2: On the farm 3: Oxford 4: Full-time pro 5: Great losses 6: Great wins 7: Caps no. 55 and 499 8: One-day cricketer 9: On tour 10: Perth 11: Trouble over Bridgwater 12: Retired hurt 13: The Observer 14: Test Match Special (then) 15: Test Match Special (now) 16: Loose ends

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Book SynopsisBrian Close is a true sporting icon: schoolboy cricket and football prodigy, youngest ever England selection, played for England in 22 Tests over four successive decades, best win ratio of any England captain ever, unfairly sacked by Yorkshire (about which the protests of Yorkshire supporters are heard even now), loved a flutter on the horses, hair-raising driver and, through it all, the most likeable and popular of men. It was not until after Brian Close's death in September 2015 that either David Warner or Ron Deaton - or anyone else for that matter - had even the remotest idea that the subject matter for this book ever existed. Only when the scores of letters which Brian wrote in the early stages of his career to lifelong friend, John Anderson, surfaced did it become apparent that they were of major historical significance in highlighting in great detail the day-to-day events of one of cricket's best known personalities. To many, they will also be of geographical interest as the letters and their envelopes show exactly which hotels he stayed in while playing first-class cricket in this country and in Australia and Pakistan. The details contained in them are a graphic reminder of just how gifted a sportsman Brian was, not only on a cricket field but when participating in a multitude of other sports including soccer (on the books of Leeds United, Arsenal and Bradford City),golf, boxing, swimming and shooting to name but a few. It is over 70 years since the first letters to John Anderson were penned and it is extraordinary that they and all of the rest have survived the passage of time. A remarkable set of circumstances led to them being seen by Warner and Deaton and their astonishment upon sifting through them was all the greater because there had never even been the slightest suggestion that letter writing formed any part of Brian's make-up. The letters, the autograph books which he filled on John's behalf, and the other memorabilia contained within these pages are part of a much wider collection which is now in the hands of the Yorkshire Cricket Foundation. The material selected for this book will surprise and enthral readers..

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Book SynopsisFrom Alfred Ackroyd to Yuvraj Singh, from Isaac Hodgson in 1863 to Kraigg Brathwaite in 2017, this volume features profiles of all those 670 men who have represented The Yorkshire CCC by playing for its first eleven in first-class cricket, limited-overs matches or Twenty20 games as well as the 59 who played for 'Yorkshire' prior to the official Club's formation. Whether they played in an amazing total of 883 matches, as Wilfred Rhodes did, or whether they wore the county colours just once – and this, surprisingly, applies to 115 players – each and every one of them has their own place in the county’s history and the contents within. Produced in quality hardback and featuring over 250 illustrations – this is a must read for fans of YCCC

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Book SynopsisWISDEN BOOK OF THE YEAR 2020 Winner of The Telegraph Sports Book Awards 2020 Heartaches Cricket Book of the Year ‘Fascinating . . . essential reading’ – Scyld Berry ‘A fascinating book, essential for anyone who wishes to understand cricket’s new age’ – Alex Massie, Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack ‘An invaluable guide’ – Mike Atherton, The Times ‘excellent . . . both breezily engaging, and full of the format’s latest, best and nerdiest thinking’ – Gideon Haigh, The Australian ‘The century’s most original cricket book . . . An absorbing ride . . . some of their revelations come with the startling force of unexpected thunder on a still night’ – Suresh Menon, editor Wisden India Almanack Cricket 2.0 is the multi award-winning story of how an old, traditional game was revolutionised by a new format: Twenty20 cricket. The winner of the Wisden Almanack Book of the Year award, the Telegraph Sports Book Awards’ Cricket Book of the Year and selected as one of The Cricketer’s greatest cricket books of all time, Cricket 2.0 is an essential read both for Test and T20 cricket lovers alike, and all those interested in modern sport. Using exclusive interviews with over 80 leading players and coaches – including Jos Buttler, Ricky Ponting, Kieron Pollard, Eoin Morgan, Brendon McCullum and Rashid Khan – Tim Wigmore and Freddie Wilde chronicle this revolution with insight, forensic analysis and story-telling verve. In the process, they reveal how cricket has been transformed, both on and off the field. Told with vivid clarity and insight, this is the extraordinary and previously misunderstood story of Twenty20, how it is reshaping the sport – and what the future of cricket will look like. Readers will never watch a T20 game in quite the same way again. “For people that love cricket it’s really important to read it,” said Miles Jupp. “I found it extraordinary.” Trade Review'the first essential study of the T20 game, studded with analysis and big-name interviewees' * Wisden *'Wigmore and Wilde take us on an absorbing ride . . . well written, some of their revelations come with the startling force of unexpected thunder on a still night' -- Suresh Menon * The Hindu *'A lucid and thoughtful guide to the T20 phenomenon' * The New Statesman *'Cricket 2.0 is the definitive book for those looking to understand the T20 format – both on and off the pitch' -- Nasser Hussain'Cricket 2.0 takes about as long to read as the average T20 game, and might be time better spent than a good many of them, being both breezily engaging, and full of the format’s latest, best and nerdiest thinking' -- Gideon Haigh * The Australian *'A fascinating insight into how the newest format has impacted on the game at every level including Test cricket. Essential reading for T20 fans and traditional followers' -- Scyld Berry * The Telegraph *'An invaluable guide by two smart young writers to the story of T20 cricket, to the strategies that underpin it and to the players who have made the format' -- Mike Atherton * The Times *'T20 is here to stay and we should celebrate and cherish all the skills involved . . . it is only going to get bigger' -- Michael Vaughan * The Telegraph *'Tim and Freddie are the torchbearers of tomorrow, we must listen to them' -- Harsha Bhogle * CricBuzz *

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Book SynopsisThis book is aimed at players and coaches (male & female) of all levels. James Knott and Andrew O’Connor have created a comprehensive and up to date guide to batting for coaches, players and parents featuring photographs and diagrams along with sixty accessible drills. This is an essential guide to the intricate skills required to become a successful batter for both players and coaches. With input from a wide range of elite players and coaches, past and present, this is an invaluable guide to developing batting skills for young and old alike.Trade Review'Like the best Joe Root innings, it has everything . . . easy to follow and bang up to date' -- Richard Hobson * Wisden *'This book is fantastic. It is insightful and detailed, I thoroughly enjoyed the holistic structure, weighted heavily towards tactics and the mental approach, still with accurate and simplified technical input' -- Sam Arthurs, Foundation Pathway Manager, Oxfordshire Cricket'This book offers a complete guide to batting, explained in a way that is thoroughly engaging and intelligible to all audiences. Whether you're a player looking to advance your own batting, a parent or a coach looking to improve others, you will find everything you need in this book to develop the next great modern day batter' -- Luke Sharples, Talent Pathway Performance Manager, Northamptonshire County Cricket Club'As technical batting coaching appears to be enjoying a renaissance following the recent fortunes of the England Test side, this book provides an accessible and comprehensive guide. The way technical and tactical aspects of batting are described makes it accessible for players of all abilities, and the drills are practical and applicable. This book is a must for all young players and coaches with a desire to understand and improve their game' -- Mike Sutliff, Dinton CC and former professional cricketer with Leicestershire & Gloucestershire'In touch and up to date whilst still incorporating the sound principles of batting that have lasted the test of time, this comprehensive guide is of great use to players, coaches and parents alike looking to aid the development of modern batsmanship to meet the demands of the modern game' -- Ben Coddington, Wimbledon CC and Lincolnshire'A very detailed yet accessible read for players and coaches of all levels. The technical, tactical, mental and physical aspects of batting are all covered and there is a huge drills section for coaches to dip into' -- David Ripley, former Northants Head Coach and London Spirit Assistant Coach'Very enlightening' -- Adam Hollioake * Surrey & England *

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Book SynopsisThe Official Yearbook of The Yorkshire County Cricket ClubBeautifully bound 126th edition. Full of features, facts, figures and fixtures. Includes the Northern Diamonds.

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Book SynopsisThe Official Yearbook of The Yorkshire County Cricket ClubBeautifully bound 127th edition. Full of features, facts, figures and fixtures. Includes the final year of the Northern Diamonds.

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Book SynopsisOne Day At A Time uses selected matches from the past 60 years to tell the story of limited-overs cricket. One-day cricket arrived as a formalised part of the calendar in 1963 with the launch of the Gillette Cup in England. The development of the limited-overs game is at the heart of the sport’s evolution, from the introduction of multi-national competition to the 21st-century phenomenon of franchise-based 20-over leagues. ‘One-day internationals’ found their way into the sport’s lexicon from 1971 and the first men’s World Cup was staged in 1975, while India’s surprise success in the 1983 edition was responsible for changing the landscape of the world’s most cricket-mad country and the global game’s balance of power. The need for an even more abbreviated version of the sport saw Twenty20 cricket introduced in England in 2003. Once again, it was Indian success on the world stage that sparked a game-changing revolution that resulted in the Indian Premier League and a year-round series of franchise-led competitions in all parts of the world. The matches featured in One Day At A Time include the first Lord’s final; the ‘underarm’ outrage in Australia; extraordinary innings by Richards, Tendulkar and Gayle; tales of match-fixing; the greatest day in the women’s game; and, of course, England’s elusive first 50-over triumph.

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Book SynopsisWhen the first lockdown came, finding himself without cricket for the first time in his life, Geoffrey Boycott sat down and began to write a retrospective warts-and-all diary of each of his Test match appearances. It is illuminating and unsparing, characterised by Boycott’s astonishing memory, famous forthrightness and unvarnished, sometimes lacerating, honesty. That 100,000 word document forms the basis for Being Geoffrey Boycott, a device that takes the reader inside Geoffrey’s head and back through cricket history, presenting a unique portrait of the internal and external forces that compelled him from a pit village in Yorkshire to the pinnacle of the world game. Now 81 and still one of the most recognisable cricketers England has ever produced, Boycott has teamed up with award-winning author Jon Hotten in this catalogue of his tumultuous time with the national side. Dropped for scoring a slow double hundred, making himself unavailable to play for England for several years, captain for eight seasons of a group of strong, stroppy and extremely talented players at Yorkshire, bringing up his hundredth hundred at Headingley against the Old Enemy, seeing David Gower and Ian Botham emerge as future greats, playing under Mike Brearley in the 1981 Ashes, in this enlightening book Boycott reveals a host of never-before-heard details regarding his peers and his playing days.

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Book SynopsisAs a cricketer, Frank Worrell mesmerised spectators with his stylish play, his elegance and his classy strokes – an artist in a realm replete with talent. Apart from that finesse on the field, he epitomised the sporting characteristics associated with the finer aspects of the game: the spirit of cricket. He relentlessly advocated for more equitable playing conditions; rebuking the many discriminatory practices that still plague sport. He was the first black man to be officially appointed West Indian captain for the famous 1960–61 tour of Australia, but he had been regarded as its de facto leader throughout the 1950s. What set Worrell apart was his natural air of authority. He did not need to be in a leadership position to manifest it, and this characteristic defined his life. By the time his international playing days were over after his final Test in England in 1963, he had become an icon as a West Indian leader, whose qualities of grace and wisdom framed him as the ideal representative of a society still constructing its identity. While this biography looks at his cricket, its primary focus is examining the nature of this enigmatic and charismatic figure, whose personal journey altered many of the existing concepts of what it meant to be West Indian. For much of his career he was plagued by insecurities and haunted by traumas, embittered by inequities within the social structures that dominated regional life. Yet he was a natural mentor, who generously shared his wisdom and experience with everyone who came into his sphere. If contemporary cricketers and administrators could have access to the kind of unconventional coaching he provided, it would make a world of difference to the approach to development, especially within the West Indies. All around the Caribbean, monuments have been erected to celebrate him, yet given the amnesiac quality of memory, it is likely that they stand in name only, without context, for a generation whose history has practically disappeared without a trace of its legacy. This biography, a result of years of research, will shed some light on the life and legacy of Sir Frank Mortimer Maglinne Worrell, and his impact on a world that needs heroes more than ever.

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Book SynopsisSports fans around the world were enthralled when Australia beat South Africa in that famous World Cup semi-final at Edgbaston in 1999. Among them, in a bar in Cyprus, were two holidaying Icelanders, Ragnar and Stefán. It was the first time they’d seen cricket, but they returned home determined to teach the game to their friends. They didn’t know the rules, own any kit, or have a team to play against – but they were determined to form Iceland’s first national cricket team. From Lord’s to the Fjords is the uproarious tale of cricket in Iceland: how the national press believed a stag party from Oxford were the official England team, how Sky Sports accidentally sent a crew to televise an Icelandic Cricket Cup final that didn’t exist, how the lead singer of Iron Maiden flew a passenger jet into a match under the midnight sun, how Henry Blofeld umpired in a blizzard on top of an ice cap, how the Iceland team was sold to the world’s public and became a viral Twitter sensation (incurring the wrath of Jofra Archer), how an Icelandic ‘mystery spinner’ signed for an Indian Premier League team, how the Iceland team fulfilled their dreams by playing their first international match – and how historical evidence proves that the Vikings were absolutely, definitely playing cricket in the tenth

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Book SynopsisA great cricket series, as reported by a great cricket writer. High hopes were held for the Ashes of 2023. They were exceeded in an instant classic of five Tests between a bold England and a battling Australia, finally drawn two-all. Ashes 2023 captures all the drama and skill, as well as the controversy over a stumping at Lord’s that followed in the tradition of Bodyline as a clash of cultures and of stereotypes. With a foot in both camps, Gideon Haigh wrote for The Australian in Australia and The Times in the UK. This book mixes his popular match reports with new material to create a priceless memento of an unforgettable series.Trade Review‘Exquisite.’ -- Patrick Goldsmith * Yorke Peninsula Country Times *

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Book SynopsisThis July sees the publication of The Great Romantic, a new biography by Duncan Hamilton of the greatest cricket writer of all time, indeed the man who invented modern cricket writing as we know it: Neville Cardus. Cardus was for many years cricket correspondent of the (then Manchester) Guardian, but wrote for a host of other publications including Wisden. Before him, cricket writing meant rather drybones match reports full of statistics and jargon. Cardus wrote about the event: the sylvan ground, the emotion of watching a great batsman like Victor Trumper in full flow. For everyone who wants to sample his finest writings, Safe Haven now publishes a new volume of Cardus's best cricket writings. Here is Cardus on Don Bradman, Victor Trumper, Denis Compton and Richie Benaud, at Roses matches and the arcadian cricket festival at Dover beneath Shakespeare Cliff, seeing the Australians defeated at Eastbourne - and of course at the home of cricket, Lord's. A handsome small hardback with retro cover illustration, here is a book for every lover of fine writing on the Summer Game.

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Book SynopsisSeveral colourful troupes of clowns travelled the nation bringing to huge crowds a jaunty parade, an uproarious cricket match against the local club, much music and dancing, plus an enjoyable concert in the evening. They did so for some twenty years in the Victorian age, visiting hundreds of towns where they were warmly welcomed. Then, in the Edwardian period, the stellar clown Dan Leno recaptured this bright concept for charitable purposes. Unbelievably, this happy marriage of sport and show business has earned only ephemeral mention in the annals of either cricket or music hall and circus: indeed, it might be argued it was sometimes swept under the official carpet by prudish authority. Until now. For the first time ever, and with a magnificent array of dazzling illustration, the full tale of clown cricket is told, with its origins explained and its routines described – with all placed in its social context with reflections on cricket and theatre connections up to the present era. The collaboration has been unique. Members of both the Association of Cricket Statisticians and Historians and the British Music Hall Society have helped with the research and picture finding. Lords of Mischief fills a gap in the story of both fields in a joyous celebration of this coming together of cricketing and clowning.Table of ContentsForeword. Chapters -1-3. Clown Cricket. Clown Cricket: The Magic Lantern. Chapter. 5 Arthur Treloar. Chapter.The Bridge to Dan Leno. Chapter.7. Dan Leno and Clown Cricket. Chapter 8. A very Queer Cricket Match. Dan Leno v Heathfield 1900. Chapter 9.. Theatre of Cricket. Chapter 10. What of the Cricket Clown? The Play is over. Appendix 1. Clown cricket sources and References. Appendix 2. What is a clown? Appendix 3. Lord’s Minutes 1875. Index.

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Book SynopsisLancashire Hotch-Potch is a collection of Bob Bond's drawings on cricket, particularly Lancashire cricket. It also includes some famous Test Match moments at Old Trafford and elsewhere. It’s not a book of statistics but cartoons including all the leading Lancashire players and all the Cup Finals. It will help you relive those moments and memorable matches. Nearly all of the events depicted are from before the Millennium, and this dip into Lancashire's colourful history will undoubtedly jog a few memories. Hear what David Lloyd says about the book: 'I've never been a big reader of books, let alone cricket books... and I have hundreds! I collect 'em but don't read 'em. But I do like picture books. As a lad I used to read comics... Topper, Beazer, Dandy, Beano ... I liked to chuckle at the characters. Bob's book caught my attention. I'm a lifelong Lancs lad... played a bit, coached a bit, talked a bit. The characters he portrays are exactly as I saw them.... True Lancastrians, and all with different characters and characteristics. Back to my comics. Bob's book made me chuckle. Memories, poignancy, nostalgia and fun”. Enjoy this dip into Lancashire's colourful history. What more do you want! Dig in! Over 200 cartoons including full page storyboards of One day finals and important matches.

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Book SynopsisDavid Warner: Daring To Be Different Unveiling cricket''s greatest entertainer!The first Australian cricketer to play 100 internationals across all three levels (Tests, ODIs and T20s), David Warner is a champion of his generation; fabulous but flawed. No Australian opener in history has surpassed his rapid-fire strike rate in excess of 70 runs per 100 balls. Only one other has surpassed his aggregate of 45 centuries across all levels.Feisty, flamboyant, verbose and villainous, few have been as entertaining or as polarising as the great David Warner.

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