Michael Parkinson On Cricket demonstrates that the author is more than just the chuckling, knee-stroking king of the TV chat-show jungle. Parkinson is also a practiced and perceptive sports writer with a particular passion for cricket, which he explores in this selection of typically intelligent, spirited and humane journalism.

Tutored in the love, legends and laws of the game by an equally impassioned cricket fan, his father, Parkinson dabbled in playing, before settling into a lifelong habit of watching in awe and wonder at the great deeds of greater men--but those first steps towards the crease, when his dreams of glory as a Yorkshire schoolboy had not yet been dampened by a lack of ability, offer some of the funniest and most poignant moments in this collection.

The portraits of cricketers--stars and journeymen; saintly and scurrilous--cover nostalgic reflections on boyhood heroes such as Don Bradman, through to pointed analysis of modern-day maestros such as Warne and Atherton. Throughout Parkinson seasons his admiration and affection with vintage Yorkshire bluntness. It's this tried, tested and much-loved recipe that makes On Cricket such a warm, witty delight--52 pieces of Parkie delivered in a punchy Sunday broadsheet style, with all the warmth and wisdom that he brings to his more celebrated TV work. Cricket fans will wallow in his company--non-believers could just find this is the book that unlocks the mystery. --Alex Hankin