Introduction

An illustrated history of unforgettable tests, legendary players and record-breaking performances. This is the story of Test cricket and how it came to dominate the global sporting calendar. With access to the The Times archives, this book features player profiles, photographs and match reports from the most dramatic Tests throughout history.

History and Significance

For almost a century and a half, Test cricket has provided some of the most dramatic highs and lows in the sporting world. Since the first exhilarating Test match between Australia and England in 1877, this unique format of the game, in which fortunes can change as quickly as the condition of the pitch, has challenged players’ mental and physical endurance.

Legendary Players

It has provided the stage for great players from Sir Donald Bradman and Sir Garfield Sobers to Sachin Tedulkar, Shane Warne and James Anderson, whose incredible performances have inspired generations of cricketers worldwide.

About the Book

Written by sports journalist Richard Whitehead, with a foreword by former England captain Mike Atherton OBE, The Times Test Cricket tells the gripping history of unforgettable tests, legendary players and record-breaking performances.

Accompanied by visually stunning photography, player profiles, and match reports from The Times archive on the most famous Tests, this is an essential book for all cricket fans.

Chapters

· Foundation story (1877–1914)
· Between the wars (1921–1939)
· Boom and bust (1946–1970)
· Revolution in the air (1971–1989)
· The age of the superstar (1990–1999)
· The 21st century (2000–2024)