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The Cricket War summary
Brief summary
The Cricket War by Gideon Haigh is a captivating account of the controversial World Series Cricket in the 1970s. It delves into the power struggles, the players' rebellion, and the lasting impact it had on the sport.
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The Cricket War
Summary of key ideas
The Dawn of a New Era in Cricket
In The Cricket War by Gideon Haigh, we are transported back to the 1970s, a time when cricket was still considered a gentleman's game, played in whites, with a red ball, and watched by a limited audience. However, all of this changed when Kerry Packer, an Australian media tycoon, decided to revolutionize the sport.
Packer, unhappy with the Australian Cricket Board, decided to take matters into his own hands. He formed his own cricket league, the World Series Cricket (WSC), and signed top international cricketers, including the leading Australian players. This move shocked the cricketing world and led to a bitter confrontation between Packer and the cricketing establishment.
The Battle of the Boards
The establishment, led by the International Cricket Conference (ICC), retaliated by banning any player associated with Packer's WSC from playing official cricket. This led to a legal battle between Packer and the cricketing boards, which culminated in a settlement. Packer was given the rights to televise cricket in Australia, and the WSC players were allowed to return to official cricket.
Haigh meticulously details the legal and financial battles between Packer and the cricketing boards, capturing the intensity of the conflict and the high stakes involved. He also provides insights into Packer's personality and motivations, portraying him as a fierce and determined businessman who was willing to take on the cricketing establishment.
The Transformation of Cricket
With the settlement, the WSC came to an end, but its impact on cricket was profound. Packer's innovations, such as the colored clothing, floodlit matches, and white balls, were eventually adopted by the official cricketing bodies. The financial benefits of televised cricket became evident, leading to the commercialization and professionalization of the sport.
Haigh also explores the impact of the WSC on the players involved. While some saw their careers damaged by their association with Packer, others, like Dennis Lillee and Ian Chappell, emerged as legends of the game. The book provides a fascinating look at how the WSC transformed the cricketing landscape and the lives of the players involved.
The Legacy of the Cricket War
In the final sections of The Cricket War, Haigh reflects on the lasting impact of the WSC. He argues that while Packer's methods were controversial, his innovations helped modernize and popularize cricket, turning it into a global sport with a massive fan base. The financial windfall from television rights also changed the economics of the game, making cricketers some of the highest-paid athletes in the world.
In conclusion, The Cricket War is a gripping account of a pivotal moment in cricket's history. Haigh masterfully captures the drama and significance of the conflict, shedding light on how a media mogul's bold move forever changed the way cricket is played, watched, and commercialized.
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What is The Cricket War about?
The Cricket War by Gideon Haigh delves into the gripping rivalry between Kerry Packer and the cricket establishment in the late 1970s. It explores how Packer's World Series Cricket revolutionized the sport and changed the landscape of cricket forever. Filled with drama, intrigue, and behind-the-scenes insights, this book offers a fascinating look at a pivotal moment in cricket history.
The Cricket War Review
The Cricket War (1993) dives into the intense cricket rivalry between Australia and the West Indies during the 1970s and 1980s, shedding light on a pivotal period in the sport's history that captivated fans worldwide. Here's why this book stands out:
- It offers insightful analyses of the key matches, players, and controversies, painting a vivid picture of a fierce cricketing era.
- The book delves into the political and social context surrounding the matches, providing a comprehensive view beyond just on-field action.
- By exploring the emotional and psychological dimensions of the players' experiences, the book ensures a gripping read that transcends mere sports reporting.
Who should read The Cricket War?
Cricket enthusiasts looking for an inside look at the sport's most controversial period
Fans of sports history and the behind-the-scenes drama of major sporting events
Readers interested in the business side of professional sports and the impact of media on the game
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The Cricket War FAQs
What is the main message of The Cricket War?
Rivalries and controversies in Australian cricket during the 1970s.
How long does it take to read The Cricket War?
Reading time varies but expect several hours. The Blinkist summary takes about 15 minutes.
Is The Cricket War a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Cricket War is a captivating insight into cricket politics. Definitely worth the read.
Who is the author of The Cricket War?
Gideon Haigh is the author of The Cricket War.
What to read after The Cricket War?
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