Men for All Seasons

Comprehensive and entertaining analysis of this summer's Ashes Test series between England and Australia, by one of cricket's foremost commentators; After years of under-performance, the start of the 2001 cricket season saw a resurgent England team. Undefeated for five series, they face the mighty Australians with more hope and confidence than anyone could have expected two years ago, when the teams last competed for the Ashes, the greatest prize in Test cricket. From Edgbaston and Lord's via Trent Bridge and Headingley to the final Test at The Oval at the end of August, the five-match series will feature a wealth of talent from experienced campaigners like Atherton and Waugh to emerging stars such as England opener Marcus Trescothick and Australia's demon fast bowler Brett Lee. Christopher Martin-Jenkins, cricket correspondent of The Times, is one of the game's foremost commentators and his brilliantly perceptive and objective survey of this fascinating series is essential reading for all fans. Full match reports and scorecards combine with elegant pen portraits of the key players to form a unique celebration of the game's ultimate contest.