Award-winning cricket writer Scyld Berry brings us a heartfelt celebration of what county cricket has been for more than a hundred years - an integral part of English life. Drawing on 60 years' experience of watching county cricket, the author provides an in-depth profile of each of the 18 first-class counties, delving into the past to explore how the game took off, in no small part thanks to the legendary W.G. Grace. With change and possible existential threat looming in the shape of The Hundred franchise, and the proliferation of T20 tournaments around the world, the England and Wales Cricket Board is looking to cut the County Championship to just ten games per season. There's never been a more pertinent time to unpick the workings of this centuries-old institution and examine why its survival is so important.

About the Author

Scyld started as The Observer's cricket correspondent in 1977 and is currently the chief cricket writer of the Telegraph. He has covered almost 500 Test matches, more than anyone except the late Richie Benaud. As well as the SJA's Cricket Journalist of the Year award in 2018, he has won several cricket book of the year awards and was editor of Wisden Cricketers' Almanack for four years. He still plays club cricket and for Gloucestershire Seniors.

Reviews

"Eighteen essays, all a joy to read, and no two the same in approach."

-- Martin Chandler * CricketWeb.net *

"A joyous eulogy... [Author] Scyld Berry is the best critical friend the game has known."

* The Cricketer's Best Books of 2023 *

"A quality production indeed... and a fascinating book, [with] excellent photographs and pleasantly produced... Presented with care and attention to detail consistent with this publisher's high standards."

-- Rajesh Kumar * Cricket Statistician *



Book Information
ISBN 9781801505543
Author Scyld Berry
Format Hardback
Page Count 288
Imprint Pitch Publishing Ltd
Publisher Pitch Publishing Ltd