The Meaning of Cricket: or How to Waste Your Life on an Inconsequential Sport

Cricket is unique among sports in its psychological aspect. It is a team game dependent almost entirely on individual performance. Time, opportunity, and the constant threat of disaster can drive its participants to despair. Surviving a single 100 mph delivery takes the body and brain to the edges of their capabilities, yet the game's abiding image is of the village green, and the glorious absurdities of the amateur player.

By blending legends of the game, from Vivian Richards to Brian Lara, Kevin Pietersen to Ricky Ponting, with a personal story, Jon Hotten reveals the funny, moving and transformative impact the game can have on a single life.