Book Review (4 of 52): The Cricket War by Gideon Haigh

Jack Banister is back with his 4th book review of 2018. Under the Banister microscope is Gideon Haigh’s masterpiece ‘The Cricket War’. In the new cricketing climate that now exists, Jack recommends you revisit the game’s original revolution

Almanac Cricket: Peace and war; a selection minefield – 1979-80 revisited.

Peter Warrington looks at what transpired in and around the 1979-80 Test series (England and West Indies toured that summer), the first series after the WSC split. Great memories. Intriguing analysis.

Chappelli always knew when he nicked one

Pubxsutawney Pete takes on Ian Chappell on a point of logic, and has a swipe at S.K. Warne for good measure.

Almanac Book Review: Chappell’s Last Stand

Michael Sexton’s latest book, Chappell’s Last Stand, recalls the turbulent events of 1975/76 as Ian Chappell led South Australia to Sheffield Shield success after stepping down as Australian captain.

Almanac Cricket: Reading, Writing and Rowdy

Michael Sexton provides us with some unique insights into Ashley ‘Rowdy’ Mallett’s journalism career which commenced while he was still Australia’s premier off spin bowler.

Almanac Cricket: Number 11 and how to be a good one

The number 11 position in the batting line-up is crucial. And, as a number 11, you should never underestimate your place in the team. Phil Hill offers some important (and amusing) advice. [It must be cricket season – Ed]

The death and births of ODIs

As T20 cricket continues to eclipse its 50-over cousin, Crankypete fondly remembers the first birth of ODI cricket.

Almanac People – 28 John Francis Wynne: my first footy hero

Rulebook’s touching tribute to a great footballer and even better person – Two Eight – John Wynne

The Rise of Spo-Co

Nick McGay runs us through the good, okay and crap of spo-co (sports comedy) shows. What category does he put The Footy Show in? Roy & HG? The Games? Add your thoughts.

Beyond Bradmania

DG Bradman’s first game for St George in November 1926 is the dawn of modern cricket history according to “Cranky” Pete Warrington. But let’s not discount those who came came before The Don. Cricket’s “Golden Age” needs to be remembered.

Answers to the Aus v NZ 2nd Test Quiz

The WACA Test was a puzzling affair. But Jeff Dowsing has found all the answers.

The future of cricket (what’s that smell?)

Strange happenings in international cricket governance. How did the “Big Three” (India, England and Australia) land in such a profitable position? What does it mean for the future? Check out Monday’s excellent Four Corners story.

Almanac Cricket: Tony Dell Standing Tall

Tony Dell is an Almanac supporter living in Brisbane. He played two Tests for Australia. His charity was the matchday charity for last year’s PM XI match in Canberra. It’s important work. Tony features in an article on PTSD – or as he prefers, simply PTS – in the Queensland RSL News sharing his experiences on coping with PTS after his return from Vietnam. A timely and important read in regards to Mens’ health

Chappelli at Sturt

Ian Chappell recently launched a new book ‘We Are Sturt’ for the Double Blues, for whom his grandfather played. Mike Sexton reports on the occasion.

Lou: What are they saying about the last day of the MCG Test in the shop?

Lou is back from counting his Christmas dollars, and tells us what the cricket chat is in the shop this morning. Conclusion: Steve Smith and advisors have forgotten I.M. Chappell.