Top Cricket Biography Books To Read In 2023

Cricket biography books come in a variety of styles and formats, from in-depth biographies that cover the entire life of a player, to memoirs that offer a more personal perspective on their experiences. Some books focus on the technical aspects of the game, while others delve into the personal lives and struggles of the players. No matter what your interests are, there is sure to be a cricket biography book that appeals to you.

When considering a purchase of a cricket biography book, it is important to pay attention to the author and the level of research that has gone into the book. A well-researched biography that is written by a knowledgeable author can offer unique insights and perspectives that will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the sport. Additionally, it is important to consider the player or players that the book focuses on, as well as the time period and events that are covered.

Whether you are a die-hard cricket fan or simply looking to learn more about the sport, a cricket biography book can offer a wealth of knowledge and entertainment. With so many great options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. In the following sections, we will take a look at some of the best cricket biography books on the market and help you find the perfect one for you.

Best Cricket Biography Books

Cricket is a sport that has captured the hearts of millions around the world. From the Ashes to the World Cup, cricket has produced some of the most iconic moments in sports history. For those who are passionate about cricket and want to learn more about the legends of the game, there are countless biographies available. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best cricket biography books that will take you on a journey through the lives of some of the greatest cricketers of all time. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just starting to learn about the sport, these books are sure to entertain and inspire you.

No Spin

If you’re a fan of cricket, No Spin by Shane Warne is a must-read book that provides an in-depth look at the legendary cricketer’s life and career.Pros

• Insightful and candid autobiography of one of the greatest cricketers
• Provides a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a professional cricketer
• Written in an engaging and entertaining style that will keep readers hooked

Cons

• Some readers may find the book too self-aggrandizing at times
• Focuses more on Warne’s personal life than his cricketing career
• Some readers may find the book a bit long and repetitive in places

No Spin is a fascinating and engaging autobiography that provides a unique insight into the life of one of the greatest cricketers of all time. The book covers Warne’s early life, his rise to fame as a professional cricketer, and his many achievements on and off the field. It is written in an entertaining and engaging style that will keep readers hooked from start to finish.

One of the things that makes No Spin such a great read is Warne’s candid and honest approach to his life and career. He doesn’t shy away from discussing his personal life, his struggles with addiction and infidelity, and his many controversies on and off the field. This makes for a refreshingly honest and insightful read that provides a unique perspective on the life of a professional cricketer.

Overall, No Spin is a great book for anyone who loves cricket or is interested in the life of a professional athlete. It is a fascinating and engaging read that provides a unique insight into the life and career of one of the greatest cricketers of all time.

Sultan

If you’re a fan of cricket and want to learn more about one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time, then Sultan is definitely worth your time.Pros

• Provides great insights into Wasim Akram’s life and career
• Easy to read and engaging
• Includes interesting anecdotes and stories

Cons

• May not provide enough technical details for some readers
• Some readers may find it too short
• Not much focus on his personal life outside of cricket

Sultan is a great read for anyone who wants to learn more about Wasim Akram and his journey to becoming one of the best fast bowlers in cricket history. The book provides great insights into his life and career, including interesting anecdotes and stories that will keep you engaged.

One of the best things about Sultan is how easy it is to read. The writing style is clear and engaging, making it a great choice for both casual and serious cricket fans alike.

However, some readers may find that the book doesn’t provide enough technical details about Akram’s bowling technique or strategy. Additionally, some readers may find the book too short, wishing that it had gone into more depth about Akram’s life and career.

Overall, if you’re looking for an engaging and informative read about one of cricket’s greatest players, then Sultan is definitely worth checking out.

Bob Willis: A Cricketer and a Gentleman: The Sunday Times Bestseller

If you’re a cricket enthusiast looking for a captivating read, Bob Willis: A Cricketer and a Gentleman: The Sunday Times Bestseller is a great choice.Pros

• Provides an in-depth look into the life of one of England’s greatest fast bowlers
• Features amusing anecdotes and insights into the world of cricket
• Includes enhanced typesetting, page flip, and X-Ray features for a better reading experience

Cons

• May not appeal to readers who are not familiar with cricket or Bob Willis
• Some readers may find the structure of the book unusual, as it combines updated biography with a compilation of Willis’ commentary
• At 286 pages, it may be a bit long for some readers

Bob Willis: A Cricketer and a Gentleman: The Sunday Times Bestseller offers a comprehensive look at the life of one of England’s most beloved cricketers. The book is filled with amusing anecdotes that give readers a glimpse into the world of cricket, and the enhanced typesetting, page flip, and X-Ray features make for a better reading experience. However, readers who are not familiar with cricket or Bob Willis may not find the book as engaging. Additionally, some readers may find the structure of the book unusual, as it combines updated biography with a compilation of Willis’ commentary. At 286 pages, it may also be a bit long for some readers.

Cricket Legends: 20 Inspiring Biographies For Kids – The Greatest Cricketers Of All Time (Fun-Filled Cricket Books For The Whole Family)

If you’re looking for a way to inspire your young cricket fan, then Cricket Legends: 20 Inspiring Biographies For Kids – The Greatest Cricketers Of All Time (Fun-Filled Cricket Books For The Whole Family) is a great choice. This book is full of interesting stories, takeaways, and powerful material that will keep your child engaged and excited about the sport.Pros

• Includes 20 inspiring biographies of the greatest cricketers of all time
• Part of the Fun-Filled Cricket Books For The Whole Family series
• Easy to read with 107 pages

Cons

• May not be detailed enough for older readers or serious cricket fans
• Only available in paperback format
• Some readers may prefer more photos or illustrations

Each biography in the book is written in an engaging and accessible style, making it easy for kids to understand and enjoy. The book is also part of the Fun-Filled Cricket Books For The Whole Family series, which means it’s designed to be enjoyed by both kids and adults.

While the book is a great choice for younger readers, it may not be detailed enough for older readers or serious cricket fans. The book is only available in paperback format, which may be a downside for some readers. Additionally, some readers may prefer more photos or illustrations to accompany the biographies.

Overall, Cricket Legends: 20 Inspiring Biographies For Kids – The Greatest Cricketers Of All Time (Fun-Filled Cricket Books For The Whole Family) is a great choice for parents looking to inspire their young cricket fans. With engaging writing and inspiring stories, this book is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

The Price Paid: A story of life, cricket and lessons learned

If you’re a cricket fan looking for a compelling read, The Price Paid: A story of life, cricket and lessons learned is a great choice. Pros

• Insightful and inspiring account of Tim Paine’s life and career
• Provides a unique perspective on the game of cricket
• Well-written and engaging

Cons

• May not be as interesting to those who aren’t fans of cricket
• Some readers may find the book too focused on Tim Paine’s personal life rather than his cricket career
• At 330 pages, it’s a fairly long read

The Price Paid: A story of life, cricket and lessons learned offers a fascinating insight into the life and career of former Australian cricket captain Tim Paine. The book provides a unique perspective on the game of cricket and is well-written and engaging. However, those who aren’t fans of cricket may not find it as interesting, and some readers may find that the book is too focused on Paine’s personal life rather than his cricket career. At 330 pages, it’s also a fairly long read. Overall, if you’re a cricket fan looking for an inspiring read, The Price Paid is definitely worth checking out.

Different Class: The Untold Story of English Cricket

If you’re a cricket fan looking for a book that delves into the history of the sport and reveals some of the lesser-known stories, Different Class: The Untold Story of English Cricket by Duncan Stone is definitely worth a read.Pros

• Provides a unique perspective on the history of English cricket
• Reveals interesting stories and facts that you won’t find in other books
• Well-researched and written in an engaging style

Cons

• May not be suitable for readers who prefer a more traditional approach to cricket writing
• Some readers may find the focus on class issues and elitism in cricket to be repetitive
• Not as comprehensive as some other cricket biographies

Different Class takes a look at the history of English cricket from a different angle, exploring the role of class and elitism in the sport. The author uses extensive research to paint a picture of the sport that goes beyond the usual stories and anecdotes. While some readers may find the focus on class issues to be repetitive, others will appreciate the unique perspective that this book provides. The writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making it a good choice for fans of cricket who are looking for something a little different.

Overall, Different Class is a well-researched and engaging book that provides a unique perspective on the history of English cricket. While it may not be suitable for all readers, those who are interested in the sport and its history will find plenty to enjoy here.

Remarkable Cricket Grounds

If you’re a cricket lover looking for a stunning coffee table book that showcases the most remarkable cricket grounds around the world, then Remarkable Cricket Grounds is definitely worth considering.Pros

• The book is filled with breathtaking photographs that capture the essence of each cricket ground.
• The author, Brian Levison, provides insightful commentary on each cricket ground, giving readers a deeper appreciation for the sport and its history.
• The book covers a wide range of cricket grounds, from small village fields to large international arenas, making it a great gift for any cricket fan.

Cons

• The book is quite heavy, weighing almost 3 pounds, so it may not be the most practical book to carry around.
• While the book’s focus on cricket grounds is unique and interesting, it may not be the most engaging read for those who are not already fans of the sport.
• The book is quite expensive, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.

If you’re a cricket enthusiast who appreciates stunning photography and insightful commentary, then Remarkable Cricket Grounds is definitely worth adding to your collection. The book provides a unique look at some of the most beautiful and historic cricket grounds around the world, and is sure to be a conversation starter for any cricket fan. While the book’s weight and price tag may be drawbacks for some, those who are passionate about the sport will find it to be a valuable addition to their library.

Virat Kohli: Legend of a great player : Biography (Sports Biographies by Info Edge)

If you’re a cricket fan looking for an interesting read, Virat Kohli: Legend of a great player : Biography is a great option.Pros

• Provides an in-depth look into the life and career of one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
• Well-written and easy to read, even for those who aren’t familiar with cricket or run machine Kohli‘s career.
• Includes interesting anecdotes and insights into Kohli’s personal life and the challenges he faced during his career.

Cons

• At only 51 pages, it may not provide as much detail as some readers would like.
• Some readers may find the book to be too focused on Kohli’s successes and not critical enough of his failures.
• The book is part of a series, which may make it less appealing to those looking for a standalone biography.

Overall, Virat Kohli: Legend of a great player : Biography is a well-written and informative book that provides a great look into the life and career of one of cricket’s greatest players. While it may not be as detailed as some readers would like, it’s a great option for those looking for an interesting and engaging read.

First of the Summer Wine

If you’re a fan of Yorkshire cricket, this book is a must-have for your collection.Pros

• The author does an excellent job of bringing to life the stories of three great Yorkshiremen of the early 20th century – Wilfred Rhodes, George Hirst, and Schofield Haigh.
• The book provides new insights into the lives and careers of these cricketing legends, with a particular focus on Haigh.
• Written in an engaging style that keeps the reader hooked from start to finish.

Cons

• The stream of match performance data can be a little distracting at times.
• Some readers may find the book a little too focused on the Yorkshire cricket scene, with less attention paid to the wider cricketing world.
• At 8.4 ounces, the book is a little heavier than some other cricket biographies on the market.

First of the Summer Wine is a beautifully written book that will appeal to anyone with an interest in the history of cricket. The author’s passion for the subject shines through on every page, and the book is packed with fascinating details and anecdotes that will keep you engaged from start to finish.

One of the book’s strengths is its focus on three lesser-known Yorkshire cricketers – Wilfred Rhodes, George Hirst, and Schofield Haigh – who nevertheless played a key role in the development of the game in the early 20th century. The author does an excellent job of bringing these players to life, painting a vivid picture of their personalities, playing styles, and achievements.

At the same time, the book also provides a broader perspective on the cricketing world of the time, with plenty of references to other players, teams, and matches. The author’s love of the game is infectious, and you’ll find yourself wanting to learn more about the players and events he describes.

Pushing the Boundaries: Cricket in the Eighties: Playing home and away

If you’re a fan of cricket history, this book is a must-read. Derek Pringle’s Pushing the Boundaries provides an entertaining and insightful look into cricket in the 80s, both at home and abroad.Pros

• Pringle’s anecdotes and stories are both humorous and informative, giving readers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the sport.
• The book is well-written and easy to read, making it accessible to both die-hard cricket fans and casual readers alike.
• Pushing the Boundaries is a great addition to any cricket book collection, providing a valuable perspective on the sport’s history.

Cons

• Some readers may find the book’s focus on the 80s limiting, especially if they are looking for a more comprehensive history of cricket.
• The book’s structure can be a bit disjointed at times, with chapters jumping between different topics and time periods.
• While Pringle’s writing is engaging, some readers may find his style a bit too informal or irreverent for their tastes.

Overall, Pushing the Boundaries is a great read for anyone interested in cricket history or looking for a unique perspective on the sport. While it may not be the most comprehensive or scholarly book on the topic, its entertaining anecdotes and well-written prose make it a valuable addition to any cricket bookshelf.

Ultimate Cricket Superstars

If you’re a cricket fan looking for a comprehensive biography book, Ultimate Cricket Superstars might just be what you’re looking for.Pros

• Features profiles of the most iconic cricket players of all time.
• Provides a detailed account of their personal and professional lives.
• Contains stunning photographs and illustrations that bring the stories to life.

Cons

• Some readers might find the book a bit too detailed and lengthy.
• The book focuses mainly on male cricket players, with very little coverage of female players.
• The book is quite heavy and might not be very portable.

Ultimate Cricket Superstars is a must-have for any cricket fan who wants to learn more about the sport’s most legendary players. The book features profiles of some of the biggest names in cricket, including Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, and Shane Warne. Each profile provides a detailed account of the player’s personal and professional life, including their early years, rise to fame, and key moments in their career.

What sets Ultimate Cricket Superstars apart from other cricket biographies is the quality of the photographs and illustrations. The book contains stunning images that bring the stories to life, making it a joy to read and browse through. Whether you’re a die-hard cricket fan or just a casual observer of the sport, you’ll find something to enjoy in this book.

However, some readers might find the book a bit too detailed and lengthy, especially if they’re not already familiar with the players featured in the book. Additionally, the book focuses mainly on male cricket players, with very little coverage of female players. Finally, the book is quite heavy and might not be very portable, so it’s best suited for reading at home or in a comfortable setting.

Turn, Turn, Turn… Please!: A Year in the Life of a Sporting Tragic

If you’re looking for a light-hearted and humorous read about cricket, then Turn, Turn, Turn… Please!: A Year in the Life of a Sporting Tragic is worth considering.Pros

• The author’s writing style is engaging and humorous, making for an enjoyable read.
• The book provides insight into the life of a cricket fan and the ups and downs they experience throughout a year.
• At just 10.6 ounces, the book is lightweight and easy to carry around.

Cons

• The book may not be suitable for readers who are not familiar with cricket or its terminology.
• Some readers may find the humor to be too “silly” or juvenile for their taste.
• At 208 pages, the book may be too short for some readers who prefer longer reads.

The author, Gideon Haigh, provides a unique perspective on the life of a cricket fan in Turn, Turn, Turn… Please!: A Year in the Life of a Sporting Tragic. Throughout the book, Haigh shares anecdotes and stories about his experiences as a cricket fan, from the highs of attending a thrilling match to the lows of enduring a losing streak.

Haigh’s writing style is engaging and humorous, making for an enjoyable read. He injects humor into even the most mundane aspects of cricket, such as the weather or the condition of the pitch. Readers who appreciate a lighthearted and humorous approach to sports writing will likely enjoy this book.

However, readers who are not familiar with cricket or its terminology may struggle to follow some of the stories and references in the book. Additionally, some readers may find the humor to be too “silly” or juvenile for their taste.

Overall, Turn, Turn, Turn… Please!: A Year in the Life of a Sporting Tragic is a fun and entertaining read for cricket fans who are looking for a light-hearted take on the sport.

Steve Smith’s Men

If you’re a cricket fan looking for an in-depth analysis of the Australian men’s cricket team’s scandal in South Africa 2018, Steve Smith’s Men is a great choice.Pros

• Geoff Lemon’s writing is engaging and quick-paced, making for an interesting read.
• The book provides an excellent analysis of what led to the ball-tampering incident at Newlands, Cape Town, and how the culture within the team contributed to it.
• Readers will gain a better understanding of some of the players of the current cricket team and Lehman, as well as the ugly management style of CA.

Cons

• The book tries to explain the culture that led to the ball-tampering period without really getting to the facts of the ball tampering.
• Some readers may find the book biased against certain players.
• Not recommended for those who are not interested in cricket or organizational culture.

Steve Smith’s Men is an excellent read for cricket fans and those interested in organizational culture. The book provides a nuanced understanding of the game and the events leading up to the scandal, making it a great choice for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the sport.

Geoff Lemon’s writing is engaging and quick-paced, making for an interesting read. Readers will come away with a better understanding of some of the players on the current cricket team and Lehman, as well as the ugly management style of CA. However, some readers may find the book biased against certain players, and it is not recommended for those who are not interested in cricket or organizational culture.

Overall, Steve Smith’s Men is a great choice for anyone looking for an in-depth analysis of the Australian men’s cricket team’s scandal in South Africa 2018.

Test Cricket: The unauthorised biography

If you’re a cricket fan looking for a comprehensive and entertaining history of test cricket, Test Cricket: The unauthorised biography by Jarrod Kimber is a must-read.Pros

• Written in Jarrod Kimber’s signature style, combining humor and honesty to bring the history of test cricket to life.
• Provides a warts-and-all account of the people and moments that shaped cricket, giving readers new context to modern-day cricket.
• Includes features like Page Flip, Word Wise, and Enhanced Typesetting for a more enjoyable reading experience.

Cons

• X-Ray is not enabled, which may be disappointing for readers who like to dive deep into a book’s content.
• The Kindle version is not compatible with all devices, so readers may need to check compatibility before purchasing.
• At 305 pages, the book may be too long for some readers who prefer shorter reads.

Test Cricket: The unauthorised biography takes readers on a journey through the history of test cricket, from its beginnings to where it stands today. Each chapter focuses on a development in the game and is told with Kimber’s usual honesty and humor. The book provides a comprehensive look at the game’s checkered past, including its dubious origins and the people who have savaged it. Kimber’s writing style makes the book an entertaining read for cricket fans of all levels of expertise.

Readers will appreciate the book’s features, like Page Flip and Enhanced Typesetting, which make it easier to read and navigate. However, X-Ray is not enabled, which may be disappointing for readers who like to dive deep into a book’s content. Additionally, the Kindle version may not be compatible with all devices, so readers should check compatibility before purchasing. At 305 pages, the book may be too long for some readers who prefer shorter reads. Overall, Test Cricket: The unauthorised biography is a well-written and comprehensive history of test cricket that is sure to please cricket fans of all levels.

Eleven Bats

If you’re a cricket fan and looking for an exciting read, Eleven Bats is definitely worth purchasing. The book tells the true story of Harry, a special operations operator, and his love for cricket. Pros

• Provides an inside look into the life of a special operations operator
• Well-written and engaging
• Combines Harry’s love for cricket with his experiences as a soldier

Cons

• May not be as appealing to those who aren’t interested in cricket or military stories
• Some readers may find the book’s focus on cricket to be distracting from the main story
• Could have included more details about some of Harry’s experiences

Eleven Bats is a beautifully written book that provides a unique perspective on the life of a special operations operator. Harry’s love for cricket shines through on every page, and the book is sure to appeal to cricket fans. However, those who aren’t interested in cricket or military stories may find the book less appealing.

The book is well-paced and engaging, and provides an inside look into the life of a special operations operator. However, some readers may find that the book’s focus on cricket detracts from the main story. Additionally, while the book provides a good overview of some of Harry’s experiences, some readers may wish that more details had been included.

Overall, Eleven Bats is a great choice for cricket fans who are interested in learning more about the life of a special operations operator. The book is well-written and engaging, and provides a unique perspective on both cricket and military life.

Buying Guide

If you’re looking to buy a cricket biography book, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to consider:

Author

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a cricket biography book is the author. Look for books written by reputable authors with a strong background in cricket. This will ensure that the book is well-researched and accurate.

Subject

Consider the subject of the book. Do you want to read about a specific player or team? Make sure the book you choose covers the subject you’re interested in.

Writing Style

Pay attention to the writing style of the book. Some books may be written in a more academic style, while others may be more accessible to the general reader. Choose a style that suits your personal preferences.

Length

Consider the length of the book. Some cricket biography books are short and to the point, while others are more in-depth and lengthy. Choose a length that you feel comfortable reading.

Reviews

Finally, read reviews of the book before making a purchase. Look for reviews from other cricket fans or readers with similar interests to get an idea of whether the book is worth buying.