Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024: Expert Predictions

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 in Australia is one of the most awaited contests in the cricketing calendar. Both teams have much to prove, with India having won the last two series Down Under and Australia eager to reclaim the trophy on home soil. 

The upcoming five-match Test series, beginning in November, promises to be a fierce battle between two of the top cricketing nations.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by jasprit bumrah (@jaspritb1)

India’s Recent Dominance

India has been in excellent form in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, winning the last two series in Australia. Their victories in 2018-19 and 2020-21 were historic, marking the first time an Asian team won a Test series in Australia. These triumphs have kept the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India’s possession since 2015, and they will be keen to extend their dominance.

However, India’s success in Australia hasn’t been without its challenges. Their batting lineup faced significant struggles during the last series, notably when they were bowled out for a mere 36 in the second innings of the Adelaide Test, the lowest Test score in India’s history. Despite this, India bounced back to win the series 2-1, showing their winning mentality. 

Indian betting fans are particularly optimistic, backing India to clinch the series for the third consecutive time. In response, sportsbooks have started rolling out promotional offers to attract punters. Fans looking to capitalize on the best bonuses can explore the list of Melbet welcome offers for top deals.

For India to retain the trophy, their batting lineup must perform consistently. The experienced top order, including Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, will be crucial. India’s former coach, Ravi Shastri, has emphasized the importance of their batters stepping up. “If India can bat well, they have every chance of making it a hat-trick of series wins in Australia,” Shastri remarked. The series will test India’s ability to handle Australia’s formidable pace attack, especially in the challenging conditions Down Under.

Australia’s Quest for Revenge

On the other hand, Australia is eager to regain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The Aussies will be out for revenge after losing the last two series at home. Australia’s legendary fast-bowling lineup, led by Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, is one of the best in the world. Adding Nathan Lyon, their premier spinner, makes Australia’s attack a formidable force.

Ricky Ponting, a former Australian captain, has predicted a 3-1 series victory for Australia. Ponting believes Australia has a point to prove after the recent defeats and expects them to come out all guns blazing. “Australia will be looking for those 20 wickets game after game to help win the series,” Ponting stated, highlighting the importance of their bowlers in this series.

The Steve Smith Conundrum

One of Australia’s key talking points is Steve Smith’s role. With David Warner’s departure from the Test arena, Smith was moved to the opening position, allowing Cameron Green to slot in at No.4. 

Ponting has expressed some uncertainty about whether this is the best position for Smith, noting that while Smith can succeed as an opener, it remains to be seen if he feels comfortable in this role.

Smith’s performance in the recent ICC World Test Championship final, where he scored his 31st Test century, will give Australia confidence. However, finding the right balance in their batting lineup will be crucial for Australia’s success.

India’s Bowling Strength

India’s bowling attack will also be a significant factor in the series. With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami fit, Mohammed Siraj, and the spin duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, India has a well-rounded attack. Ponting has also mentioned the possibility of Khaleel Ahmed being a bolter for India, noting his impressive performances in the IPL. Khaleel’s left-arm pace could offer India a point of difference, particularly in Australian conditions.

Final Thoughts

The rivalry between Australia and India has become one of the most intense in cricket. While the Ashes series between Australia and England remains iconic, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy has become equally significant. 

Ponting reflected on the growing rivalry, noting that India has consistently risen to the challenge, whether at home or away. “India’s rivalry with Australia has probably overtaken their rivalry with South Africa,” Ponting observed, underlining the importance of this series.

from Cricket Web https://ift.tt/dfLGhgQ
via IFTTT

Cricket Legends: Players Who Shaped the Sport

Cricket has seen many legends over the years, players whose skill and dedication have left an indelible mark on the sport. This article looks at some of these iconic figures and how they influenced cricket’s evolution.

Sir Donald Bradman

Sir Donald Bradman, often referred to as “The Don,” is widely considered the greatest batsman of all time. With a staggering test batting average of 99.94, Bradman’s prowess with the bat was unmatched. His technique, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure made him a legend. Bradman’s influence extended beyond his playing days, as he became a mentor and administrator, helping shape the future of Australian cricket.

Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar, known as the “Little Master,” is another cricketing legend whose career spanned 24 years. Tendulkar’s records are numerous, including being the first player to score 100 international centuries. His elegant batting style, combined with an unwavering dedication to the sport, earned him fans worldwide. Tendulkar’s influence on aspiring cricketers in India and beyond is immeasurable, as many young players cite him as their primary inspiration.

Sir Garfield Sobers

Sir Garfield Sobers is celebrated as one of cricket’s greatest all-rounders. Representing the West Indies, Sobers excelled with both bat and ball. He was the first player to hit six sixes in a single over in first-class cricket, showcasing his incredible power and skill. Sobers’ versatility and sportsmanship set a standard for future generations of cricketers.

Shane Warne

Shane Warne revolutionized the art of leg-spin bowling. His famous “Ball of the Century” in 1993, which bamboozled England’s Mike Gatting, remains one of cricket’s most iconic moments. Warne’s ability to turn the ball prodigiously and his tactical acumen made him a formidable opponent. His impact on the game is seen in the resurgence of spin bowling in modern cricket.

Brian Lara

Brian Lara, with his fluid batting style and incredible shot-making ability, holds the record for the highest individual score in test cricket (400 not out) and first-class cricket (501 not out). Lara’s flair and dominance at the crease made him a fan favorite and a significant figure in West Indies cricket.

Modern Influences and Technology

Modern cricket has also been shaped by advancements in technology and analytics. Tools like Hawk-Eye and Snickometer have improved decision-making and fair play. Additionally, the use of data analytics helps teams strategize and players refine their techniques.

In contemporary times, the growing interest in cricket odds has expanded the way fans engage with the sport, offering new ways to interact with and experience the excitement of cricket. This development parallels the influence that cricket legends have had on the evolution of the game.

Conclusion

The sport of cricket has been shaped by many extraordinary players whose legacies continue to inspire. From Bradman to Tendulkar, and the innovations in technology and fan engagement, cricket remains a dynamic and evolving sport. The contributions of these legends ensure that the game continues to thrive and captivate audiences worldwide.

from Cricket Web https://ift.tt/Xvf7AlB
via IFTTT

Betting on Cricket: Crucial Elements for a Good Analysis

In addition to being a thrilling sport, cricket is a well-liked venue for wagering. In addition to skill and luck, winning betting involves meticulous match analysis, which you can find on Dailysports.net for free. Let’s investigate the main elements that can improve your ability to predict cricket match outcomes and help you place more wise wagers.

Peculiarities of cricket betting 

Cricket matches are complex and have many variables that affect the outcome. To improve their chances of winning, bettors need to take a variety of things into account. In contrast to less difficult games like basketball or football, cricket necessitates a thorough comprehension of the rules along with a strategic approach.

First of all, it is important to consider the current state of the teams. This includes an analysis of recent matches, the form of key players and the general atmosphere in the team. Teams that show consistent results and have strong players in their squad have a better chance of success. It is also worth paying attention to injuries and possible changes in the squad.

Playing conditions play a significant role in cricket. It is one of the few sports where weather conditions can dramatically change the course of the game. For example, wet weather can make the ball slippery, making it difficult for some players and easier for others. The pitch also matters, with some pitches being easier to score runs on, while others are more conducive to defensive play.

Here are some key factors to consider when analyzing cricket matches:

Before everything, examine team form and statistics: Looking at recent games, wins and losses, and the performance of top players. What else should be considered:

• Weather conditions: Its impact on the game, especially in Test matches where it can change over the course of several days.
• Pitch conditions: The type of surface, its preparation, and its impact on the teams’ playing style.
• Head-to-head records: The teams’ history of encounters, especially in ongoing tournaments.
• Team strategy: The tactical approach, which can change depending on the opposition and playing conditions.

The current form of the players and their individual performances also matter. There are many statistics in cricket, such as run average, bowler efficiency, and overs success rate. These can help you understand which players are in the best shape.

Summing up

The psychological state of the players and the team as a whole should not be forgotten. The pressure of important matches, the internal atmosphere and motivation can be decisive factors. By analyzing these aspects, you can get a more complete picture of the possible outcomes of the matches.

from Cricket Web https://ift.tt/uGTpzh7
via IFTTT

The Evolution of T20 Cricket: Changing the Face of the Game

For hundreds of years, cricket has been the traditional game that has changed its phases just like a roller coaster. Cricket has come a long way, from the longest to the shortest formats. When the T20 format arrived, people started worshipping it because of its fast-paced game. This article is specially focused on the Evolution of T20 cricket.

Evolution of T20 Cricket

T20 cricket was a necessary step to be a part of the biggest need for making the game attractive to a larger audience. The traditional formats of Test cricket and One Day Internationals (ODIs) were too long in duration, which wouldn’t work in the current era with busy schedules. The solution came with a 20-over-per-side format called T20 cricket, turning the game into a three-hour match. 

Change in the approach of players

T20 has certainly influenced the methods in which cricketers play today. Limited overs and time constraints have pushed players to become more aggressive. The batsmen have become more aggressive as they look for boundaries, whereas the bowlers have started to learn new varieties in their bowling. As a result, the game has become more entertaining with increased run rates and dramatic finishes.

Financial evolution

T20 leagues like IPL, BBL, and CPL have changed the financial phase of the game, attracting talent from across the globe and growing cricket’s commercial footprint via sponsorships and advertisements. Cricket betting apps have also stood strong in the competition. For example, the 10cric betting market website has emerged strongly in virtual betting platforms. 

These leagues and apps have seen an influx of millions in investment, and the players’ salaries and fans placing bets have risen exponentially.

Technological Advancements

Technological Innovations such as the Decision Review System (DRS), Hawk-Eye, and Snickometer have not only improved umpiring decisions but also become an essential factor for analysis among fans along with virtual betting where fans can enjoy live Betting on 1XBET and try their luck.

Challenges 

Experts argue the T20 format has stripped away Test cricket, the game’s purest form in which players are judged based on their skills, capabilities, and patience. The craze for one-day Internationals and test cricket is decreasing daily. Many countries have started T10 leagues, which means 10 overs per side, and the whole game has summed up to 20 overs, which is a concern for the game’s originality in the coming years. 

The Future of T20 Cricket

The T20 cricket, on the whole, affects how all formats of cricket will be played and shaped in future. It will reduce the strain on fans, enhance player performance and potentially be facilitated by technologies ranging from virtual reality to advanced analytics. Online casinos and cricket betting apps will play an important part for fans to get virtually engaged in the game. 

Conclusion

T20 cricket has given new life to the game of Cricket and is turning out to be one that would suit everyone. This has had a recognizable effect on the playing process, the players’ approach, financial stability, the technological approach, and many more. But the format can only get bigger by saving the other two formats of the game. 

from Cricket Web https://ift.tt/tWy5Erq
via IFTTT

Experience the Excitement of Live Roulette Online: How to Play and Win

Live roulette has long been a staple in the world of online gaming, offering an experience that mirrors the excitement of traditional casino tables. With advancements in technology and the growth of online platforms, players can now enjoy this classic game from the comfort of their own homes. This guide will walk you through the thrill of live roulette, providing insights on how to play, strategies to consider, and tips to maximize your winning potential.

The Thrill of Live Roulette Online

Live roulette combines the best of both worlds: the ease and accessibility of online gaming with the authentic experience of a real casino. When you join a live roulette game, you’re greeted by a professional dealer, a real roulette wheel, and fellow players, all connected via live streaming technology. This setup ensures that every spin of the wheel is fair and transparent, replicating the real-world dynamics of the game.

What sets live roulette apart from standard online roulette is its interactive nature. Players can engage with the dealer and other participants, making the experience much more social and immersive. The high-quality streaming, multiple camera angles, and real-time gameplay contribute to an atmosphere that is both electrifying and engaging.

How to Play Live Roulette Online

For those new to the game, understanding how to play live roulette online is crucial. The basic premise of roulette is straightforward: players place bets on where they think the ball will land on the spinning wheel. The wheel is divided into numbered pockets, alternating between red and black, with a green pocket reserved for the number zero.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get started:

1. Choose a Live Roulette Game: On platforms like Stake.com, players can choose from various live roulette tables, each with different limits and features. Options include classic European Roulette, American Roulette, and even regional variants like Hindi Roulette.
2. Place Your Bets: After selecting your table, the game begins with the betting phase. Players can place bets on a single number, groups of numbers, the color of the pocket, or whether the number will be odd or even. The betting options are vast, allowing for a range of strategies.
3. The Spin: Once the betting time is up, the dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball. The thrill of anticipation builds as the ball bounces around the wheel before settling in one of the pockets.
4. Outcome and Payouts: If the ball lands on a number or color you’ve bet on, you win! Payouts vary depending on the type of bet placed, with straight bets (betting on a single number) offering the highest payout.

Understanding the Different Types of Bets

Knowing the different types of bets in live roulette can significantly enhance your gameplay. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:

• Straight Bet: Betting on a single number. This bet offers the highest payout of 35:1.
• Split Bet: Betting on two adjacent numbers. The payout is 17:1.
• Street Bet: Betting on three numbers in a horizontal line. The payout is 11:1.
• Corner Bet: Betting on four numbers that form a square. The payout is 8:1.
• Line Bet: Betting on six numbers in two horizontal lines. The payout is 5:1.
• Dozen/Column Bet: Betting on 12 numbers in a column or group. The payout is 2:1.
• Even Money Bet: Betting on Red/Black, Odd/Even, or 1-18/19-36. The payout is 1:1.

Popular Live Roulette Games on Stake.com

Stake.com offers a diverse range of live roulette games, each providing a unique spin on the classic format. Here are some of the standout options:

• European Roulette: The most popular version, featuring 37 pockets (numbers 1-36 and a single zero), which gives the house a lower edge than the American variant.
• American Roulette: This version includes an additional pocket for double zero (00), increasing the total number of pockets to 38 and giving the house a slightly higher edge.
• French Roulette: Similar to European Roulette but with additional rules like La Partage and En Prison, which can lower the house edge further.
• Lightning Roulette: A unique version where up to five lucky numbers are struck by lightning, offering payouts of up to 500x.
• Hindi Roulette: Tailored for the Indian audience, this variant features a Hindi-speaking dealer and offers an experience that resonates with local players.

Strategies to Improve Your Odds

While roulette is largely a game of chance, employing certain strategies can help improve your odds of winning. Here are a few popular approaches:

• Martingale Strategy: This strategy involves doubling your bet after every loss, with the aim of recovering all previous losses and gaining a profit with a single win. It’s best suited for even-money bets like Red/Black or Odd/Even.
• Reverse Martingale: Also known as the Paroli system, this strategy involves doubling your bet after every win, allowing you to capitalize on winning streaks while limiting losses.
• D’Alembert System: A more conservative approach where you increase your bet by one unit after a loss and decrease it by one unit after a win. It’s a less aggressive strategy that helps manage your bankroll.
• Fibonacci Sequence: This strategy is based on the famous Fibonacci sequence, where each bet is the sum of the previous two. It’s a cautious approach that aims to gradually recover losses.

Tips for a Successful Live Roulette Experience

• Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the rules of the specific roulette variant you’re playing. Different versions may have unique rules that can affect your strategy.
• Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your gaming session and stick to it. Roulette can be fast-paced, and it’s easy to get carried away.
• Take Advantage of Bonuses: Many online platforms offer bonuses and promotions that can enhance your gameplay. These can include deposit bonuses, cashback offers, or free bets.
• Observe the Game: Before placing large bets, observe the game for a few rounds to get a feel for the pace and the dealer’s style.
• Enjoy the Experience: Remember that roulette is a game of chance, and while strategies can improve your odds, there are no guarantees. Enjoy the excitement and the immersive experience that live roulette provides.

The Future of Live Roulette Online

The popularity of live roulette is set to continue growing as technology advances and online platforms innovate. Features like virtual reality, augmented reality, and AI-driven dealers could further enhance the immersive experience, bringing players even closer to the thrill of a real casino.

Additionally, as more regional variants like Hindi Roulette emerge, the game will continue to appeal to a broader audience, offering something for everyone, regardless of location or language.

Live roulette offers a thrilling and authentic gaming experience that is unmatched in the online casino world. By understanding how to play live roulette online, exploring different strategies, and embracing the interactive nature of the game, players can maximize both their enjoyment and their winning potential. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, the world of live roulette is filled with excitement, and the opportunity to win big awaits at every spin

from Cricket Web https://ift.tt/zkJyD3S
via IFTTT

Uncover How Cricket is Shaping the Next Generation of Indian Athletes

How Cricket Is Inspiring the Next Generation of Athletes in India

Cricket has long been a well-respected sport in India. It won’t be a reach to say it is India’s favorite sport. Undoubtedly, the country is devoted to the sport and shaping other spheres in the sports scene. Some would say the sport is sewn into the fabric of Indian society. 

Cricket is a source of pride for India, and the recent T20  win reaffirms this. The win and India’s overall performance have significant implications. Here, we discuss how they affect the next generation of Indian athletes. Keep reading to learn more about how this game is inspiring the future generation. 

A Brief Overview of India’s Cricket History 

To understand how Indians and cricket grew strong ties, we have to go back in time. Here, we can see how the sport grew to become an influential aspect of the country’s sport. 

• Cricket is a British creation that was brought into India by British colonizers. 
• The sport was fully integrated by Indians in 1751. They played many local matches before joining the International Cricket Council in 1926. 
• India debuted under CK Nayudu, considered the best Indian batsman ever.
• India had a rocky start in the 1930s and 1940s; however, the team picked up in 1952, winning their first match and first T series. 

And the rest, they say, is history. The Indian Cricket team stuck with fame and kept producing geniuses on the pitch. The way the Indians approached the sport felt like they hacked the system. Betting on them using Indibet official website in India at peak performance is almost a guaranteed win. If you couple the choice with the Indibet Bonus, you will win big and have fun with Indibet. 

Inspiration from Top Cricket Athletes 

One of the many ways the game inspires the next generation of athletes is through its top players. These top players have pulled off insurmountable feats that surpass most in the industry. Names like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, and Sunil Gavaskar are role models for younger generations. 

The players have shown remarkable performance. An example is Sachin Tendulkar, who has a record of over 30,000 runs. The star players inspire younger players to be physically and mentally adept. Many young people in India see these legends as superhumans. Aspiring to be like them transcends not just the sport but other sports and spheres of their lives. It is a testament that Indians like themselves can also surpass unbeatable odds. 

Government Support to Cricket And Other Sports Infrastructure 

Cricket has been a relatively successful sport for India, which has motivated the government to invest in it. The more the government invests, the better the returns. The process runs like a positive feedback loop. Now, there are several training grounds. The country can afford better coaches. And opportunities like scholarships for stellar athletes exist as incentives. The infrastructure and investment offer younger athletes more opportunities to pursue their dreams. The permissive environment might never have come to be if not for this game. The sport was a forerunner of the process and has carried it all the way. 

Increasing Popularity and Success

It will only matter a little if the government invests in cricket and the players are great, but there are no wins. Wins consummate effort! The game’s success and growing popularity are among the major driving factors behind the better performance of athletes in other sports. The success, including the recent T20 win, shows that the government’s investment is going to a good cause. On that note, the government is more likely to invest in other sports and greatly inspire positive performance from the athletes. 

Final Thoughts 

In closing, sports are much like anything that requires grit and dedication. If you give it enough attention, you can make spectacular results. India’s Cricket team is a testament to what a little push in the right direction and some star players can do. Undoubtedly, the success of the game has inspired the next generation of athletes in more ways than one. This article covers all the grounds on how cricket is shaping the future. From more funding to role models, we see how success in one sport grooms the success in others. As a parting gift, undergo an Indibet register process and bet on one Indibet game. Watch how betting at Indibet as a Cricket fan can be fun. 

from Cricket Web https://ift.tt/8bj6VGT
via IFTTT

The Quest For The Happy Warrior

The name of O’Neil Gordon ‘Collie’ Smith is one that has fascinated me all my life, although I cannot recall now just how that started. It must have been because of stories my father told me, and although exactly what he said now escapes me it would have been something along the lines of ‘What might he have achieved but for his untimely death?’.

The lack of any real knowledge beyond the basis of his Test career and his sadly early death were a source of frustration for sometime, but something that I found easy enough to live with until I got round to reading Garry Sobers’ 2002 published My Autobiography, the opening chapter of which is a heartfelt homily to the friend he lost in that tragic road accident in 1959.

It was inevitable therefore that when, a few years later, I found an outlet for my musings on the subject of cricket and cricketers that one of the first subjects I wanted to write about was Collie Smith.

There are books aplenty that have been written about Sobers, and I found material in those as well as books by or about Everton Weekes, Frank Worrell and Clyde Walcott as well as various histories of West Indies cricket and accounts of the few series in which Collie appeared. But what I couldn’t track down was a biography of Collie himself, and I knew there was one as it had a passing mention on, of all places, his Wikipedia page.

Where I couldn’t find any reference to the book, titled The Happy Warrior and written by Kenneth Chaplin, was in Padwick’s Bibliography of Cricket. The first edition of Padwick appeared in 1977, and an updated and expanded second edition seven years later. I did for a while think that perhaps it was one of those books that was written but never actually published, but then I did see a copy. It was in a dealer’s shop, but was not in great condition, was not substantial and, even if I could have overcome those concerns, was priced way in excess of what in those days I was prepared to pay for a cricket book.

By 2012 I had seen no other copy of The Happy Warrior so, on the basis I had researched everywhere else that I could find mention of Collie, I wrote the feature, that appeared as this, back in March 2012. I was happy enough with the result and, always the beauty of anything that appears on line, figured I could tinker with it when and if a copy of the book ever appeared.

For the next dozen years I kept on looking for the book. I regularly asked dealers, in hope rather than expectation, whether they had copies and the answer was always no. I never saw a copy on a dealer’s website, in a catalogue or up for auction. I also trawled eBay daily, and regularly used a variety of search sites in the hope someone somewhere in the world would list a copy.

So obsessed was I with this search that I took to asking everyone in the Caribbean that I came across to keep an eye open for a copy for me. Over the years I have also had dealings with a few clients whose roots were in Jamaica, and have offered them all huge discounts on fees if they could source a copy for me. It got to the stage where I have made similar offers to anyone I know with the most tenuous connection with the Caribbean, and of course nothing ever came of any of these requests for assistance.

At one stage I even managed to secure an email address for author Kenneth Chaplin, sadly no longer with us. To be fair to him Chaplin did respond to my email, albeit simply to say rather unhelpfully that the book ‘has long been out of print’ and ‘I cannot help you with finding a copy’. I did ask him a few follow up questions about who published the book, the size of its print run and the like but, perhaps understandably, I didn’t hear from him again.

I often pondered why the book should be so vanishingly rare. It wasn’t a limited edition as such, although I accept that is a misnomer in the sense that any book is limited by the number of copies printed, but then interest in Collie was huge. Tens of thousands of Jamaicans turned out for his funeral, so there was surely a demand. I can also accept that many of those who did buy copies were not cricketing bibliophiles, nor indeed ‘book people’ at all, but surely some copies must have been kept?

I can also appreciate that in 1960 the world was a much larger place, and news of the book’s publication may not have reached far, but surely some of the many friends who Collie made in his two seasons in the Lancashire League with Burnley would have heard of the book’s existence and made sure a few copies arrived here?

Well it ultimately seems like at least one did as, a few weeks ago, I got home from work and, for want of something to occupy my mind before the 7pm news began, had a look on eBay and, lo and behold, there was a copy of The Happy Warrior, and I didn’t even have the stress of an auction to endure as it had a ‘buy it now’ price, which I duly paid.

And so, a couple of days later, a copy of Collie Smith’s biography duly turned up at my house. The most remarkable thing about the sale was that to the best of my recollection the original listing must have gone up at least eight hours before I saw it – am I really the only cricket collector with an obsession with The Happy Warrior?

One of the characteristics that collectors have, and one of the things that I believe puts us well and truly ‘on the spectrum’, is that the thrill of the acquisition conquers all. Thus I had owned The Happy Warrior for a full six weeks before the thought of actually reading the thing occurred to me, and it was only because I was stuck with very little to do last Saturday morning that I actually did so. Would it have made much difference to the feature I wrote all those years ago? I reasoned that I owed it to myself to find out.

The 62 pages took less than an hour to read. Its author, I had found out, passed away in 2019 at the age of 90. He was a career journalist, not primarily in sport reporting, but you simply have to google his name to see that he was a highly respected man who served as press secretary to four Jamaican Prime Ministers. As far as sport is concerned his main contribution seems to have been as a football referee, and a FIFA recognised one for 18 years. As far as I can see The Happy Warrior is his only book.

I had wondered if perhaps the book was simply not very good, and that the lack of quality contributed to why it was so elusive. That thought was certainly mistaken, as the book is a well-written one and sheds a great deal of light on Collie’s upbringing, his religious values and his life at home. Letters that he wrote from England to his mother and his fiancee appear in the text to further illustrate his character.

But in terms of my feature there is, I was pleased to note, nothing to change. I had managed to pick up all of Collie’s cricketing achievements from elsewhere, although were I writing the feature today I might have mentioned having finally learned where the name ‘Collie’ came from, the explanation being it was a pet name, after her maid Conchita, that Collie’s grandmother gave to him and which stuck to him for the rest of his days.

The one slight surprise in The Happy Warrior is that there is no mention of the ‘special relationship’ with Sobers, but then Chaplin had not as far as I can see, with the exception of Gerry Alexander who provides a foreword, spoken to any of Collie’s West Indies teammates. The book is very much a case of one Jamaican paying tribute to another, so perhaps that is the explanation for that.

It goes without saying that I was delighted to finally track down a copy of a book I have been actively looking for for the best part of two decades. Equally with success in finally doing so something has gone out of my life, so I will have to find something else to apply the same energy to finding – i wonder what it will be?

from Cricket Web https://ift.tt/o361sqH
via IFTTT