Customer Reviews

Cricket For Dummies

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I was a bit disappointed in this book because I was hoping to learn about cricket so that I could better understand when I am watching a match. About half this book is spent on tips on how to play and practice cricket.

While the author attempts to dumb down the rules of the game, it's obvious that the book is written by an Englishman for Britons, or those who have had at least some experience with cricket. (I live in Texas, and the only crickets I know are those noisy bugs or Buddy Holly's band.)

Some concepts are never fully explained, while others are covered in minute detail. For example, the batting section goes on and on, with numerous illustrations, while the section on bowling is comparatively brief. We could really use a step-by-step -- with pictures -- examination of the basic bowling process and less on different techniques.

Also, the book focuses too much on playing and coaching the game. I'd much rather read more about the history of cricket. The section on cricket controversies and great players is nice, but way too short.

Finally, while Mr. Knight's enthusiasm for the game is obvious, alas, his jokes are pretty lame.

I fell in love with Cricket while deployed to Diego Garcia several years ago. We watched Cricket matches broadcast to on South African satellite TV. For anyone who hasn't a clue what the game is all about, this book is a FABULOUS read. Though most of the references to teams and County Cricket are obviously more meaningful to British readers, the level of detail and explanation is great for US fans. Breakdowns on the fielding, bowling, and batting aspects of the game flow smoothly and are extremely easy to follow. The history and current state of the game sections give you a real feel for just how very large Cricket is in the rest of the world and makes my sorry we can't embrace what is really the most civilized of sporting events still being played. (What 300 pound lineman would be caught dead taking "Drinks" or the "Tea Interval" at halftime at the Super Bowl?!) Pick up a copy and get a good handle on the great game that we turned into baseball!

This is a good book. However, it is not really a good first book. In fact, it is short on one of the most needed features for the beginner: an exhaustive index of all those nutty terms. Eg. try to find a "Chinaman".

Of course, this book has considerable information on many items that are really needed. e.g. the 'how-to' of bowling many of those strange throws.

I would suggest reading "Cricket Explained" by Robert Eastaway first. It is shorter and initially more useful. You will also want "Cricket for Dummies" as well. If there is an Amazon special for both - go for it.

Having known little, and with a need to get up-to-speed quickly - trip to England and daughter's (in school there) boyfriend a cricket "nut" - this fit the bill nicely.

Transaction was very pleasant. Book was a birthday gift present, so I haven't read it.