Collected together in words and pictures Those Summers of Cricket pays homage to Richie Benaud's life. The many contributions bring his life into sharp focus for the many generations who only know him as the 'voice' of cricket. And through each piece, often written by an ex-Australian cricket team member or captain or cricket writer or sports commentator or Richie Benaud himself, we learn more about the brilliant career that unfolded.
Along the way the many accolades accorded Richie as he went from club cricket, district and State cricket to leading the Australian Cricket Team are documented from newspapers and reports.
Richie Benaud's own words tell of growing up in Jugiong and later western Sydney. His brother tells of Richie's selection into the Australian cricket team. Among the contributing pieces to this anthology are those from ex-Test captains Greg Chappell and Ian Chappell; ex-coach Australian cricket coach John Buchanan; ex-Australian cricketers Dennis Lillee and Alan Davidson; cricket writers Gideon Haigh, Simon Hughes, Malcolm Knox, Leo McKinstry (UK), Jim White (UK), Daniel Brettig, Steve Cannane, and commentator Mike Atherton.
All are opinionated and fascinating reading. All bring to life the many faces of Richie Benaud in this warm and colourful tribute.
"Those Summers Of Cricket is a lovely, passionate and timely release from Hardie Grant, lovingly put together and should take pride of place in every Aussies living room this summer." - Chris Micheals, cargoART
"There are some cricket books which I am reluctant to recommend to non cricket fanatics as they are not broad enough. I have no such reservations with Those Summers of Cricket" - Paul Connolly, Cricket Web
"This beautifully produced publication offers a chronological snapshot of the cricketing legend as player, journalist, commentator and innovator" - Dubbo Weekender
"He was an iconic fixture of Aussie summers for more than 30 years. This book is a fitting tribute to the great man." - People Magazine