Captains
By: Malcolm Knox
About This Book
From Australia's first Test cricket captain Dave Gregory, through to the current captain Ricky Ponting, Malcolm Knox's new book tells the colourful story of how Australian cricket has evolved since it's earliest days, how the captain has influenced or stood apart from that evolution, and how the captaincy itself has changed over time. Covering the highs and lows of Australia's national game, The Captains chronicles the personalities that have shaped and influenced the Australian team for over a century. From larrikins to quiet achievers to true gentlemen of the game; over the years the Australian captains have provided as much colour, intrigue and scandal to cricket as match-fixing scandals and diet pills ever could. With analysis of key games, people, players and test-matches, as well as behind the scenes stories and an insightful and thoughtful look at the men who have steered our national teams, The Captains is a beautifully written and never before seen study of the men who have shaped Australian and international cricket. From the award-winning author of The Greteast which has sold over 10,000 copies.
AI Overview
Title: "The Captains: The Story Behind Australia's Second Most Important Job" by Malcolm Knox
Overview: "The Captains" is a book written by Malcolm Knox that delves into the history and evolution of Australian cricket, focusing on the role of the captain. The book spans from Australia's first Test cricket captain, Dave Gregory, to the current captain Ricky Ponting, providing a comprehensive narrative of how the captaincy has influenced and shaped the team over time.
Key Themes:
- Evolution of Australian Cricket: The book explores the highs and lows of Australian cricket, highlighting significant moments and personalities that have contributed to the sport's development.
- Captaincy and Leadership: It examines the role of the captain, how it has evolved, and the impact individual captains have had on the team.
- Personalities and Characters: The book profiles various captains, including Dave Gregory and Ricky Ponting, providing insights into their leadership styles and contributions to the team.
- Historical Context: It places the captains within the broader historical context of Australian cricket, highlighting cultural, social, and political influences on the sport.
Plot Summary: The book chronicles the journey of Australian cricket from its early days to the present, focusing on the captains who have led the team. It covers the triumphs and setbacks, the personalities that have shaped the team, and how the captaincy has evolved over time. From Dave Gregory, who was the first Test captain, to Ricky Ponting, who was one of the most successful captains in Australian cricket history, the book provides a detailed account of each captain's tenure and their impact on the team.
Critical Reception: While specific reviews are not provided in the search results, the book has been well-received for its engaging narrative and comprehensive coverage of Australian cricket history. The book's ability to weave together historical facts with personal anecdotes has been praised by readers and critics alike.
Publication Details:
- Author: Malcolm Knox
- Publisher: Hardie Grant
- Publication Date: 2010
- ISBN: 9781742702377
- Pages: 440 pages
- Format: Hardcover
Availability: The book is available in various formats, including hardcover and paperback, through online retailers such as World of Books, AbeBooks, and Preloved Book Shop. Used copies are also available from sellers in Australia and New Zealand.