Ashes 2023
A Cricket Classic
By: Gideon Haigh
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 shared two-all. 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.
AI Overview
Overview of "Ashes 2023" by Gideon Haigh
Key Themes:
- Historical Context: The book provides a historical perspective on the Ashes series, which dates back to 1877, offering portraits of leading protagonists from various series.
- Match Reports: It includes Gideon Haigh's popular match reports, which are mixed with new material to create a comprehensive account of the 2023 Ashes series.
- Drama and Skill: The book captures the drama and skill exhibited during the series, highlighting moments of controversy, such as the stumping at Lord's that drew comparisons to the Bodyline series.
- Cricket Legacy: It explores the legacy of cricket, covering influential figures and their contributions to the sport.
Plot Summary:
- The book is a collection of over eighty pieces of writing, ranging from brief reports to in-depth analyses. It starts with early figures like Charles Bannerman, Tom Horan, and WG Grace, and continues through to contemporary players and events.
- The narrative is structured around match reports and historical profiles, providing a rich tapestry of cricket history and culture.
- The 2023 Ashes series is a central focus, with detailed coverage of the matches, controversies, and key moments that defined the series.
Critical Reception:
- Positive Reviews: The book has received positive reviews for its engaging and insightful writing. It is described as an "outstanding read" and "wonderful stuff" by cricket enthusiasts, who appreciate the depth and breadth of the coverage.
- Comparison to Other Works: The book is compared favorably to David Frith's "Bodyline" tour book, although it is noted that it covers a broader range of topics and periods.
- Minor Criticism: There is a minor error mentioned in one review regarding a reference to Tommy Mitchell, a legend of Derbyshire county cricket, which does not detract from the overall quality of the book.
Publication Details:
- Publisher: Allen and Unwin
- Availability: The book is available in various formats, including print and eBook, from major bookstores like Barnes & Noble and Abbey's Bookshop.
Overall, "Ashes 2023" by Gideon Haigh is a comprehensive and engaging book that offers a unique blend of historical context, match reports, and cricket legacy. It is highly recommended for cricket enthusiasts and those interested in sports history.