Crickonomics

Crickonomics, penned by the renowned journalist Tim Wigmore and esteemed economist Stefan Szymanski, offers an enlightening and thought-provoking exploration of cricket through the lens of statistical analysis and economic theory. This ground-breaking work delves deep into the intricacies of the sport, uncovering the hidden forces and underlying patterns that have shaped its history and evolution.

At its heart, Crickonomics seeks to answer some of the most pressing and intriguing questions in the cricketing world. Why does England favour private school-educated players for batting roles over bowling ones? What demographic shifts fuelled India's ascension in the cricketing hierarchy? How have women historically driven innovations within the game? The authors explore South Africa's challenges in nurturing Black Test batters and examine the nuanced impact of weather conditions on match outcomes.

The book also delves into transformative moments in cricket's recent past. It sheds light on how players like Jayasuriya and Gilchrist revolutionised Test batting, set against the backdrop of T20's rise. A critical dissection of English cricket's missed opportunity to institute a football-like league structure is juxtaposed with an analysis of the financial disparities between batters and bowlers.

Further broadening its global perspective, Crickonomics examines how the sport is making surprising inroads in unexpected places, such as Afghanistan's role in reshaping German cricket. The authors also offer valuable lessons from New Zealand's cricketing practices and underscore the significance of the Barmy Army's fervent support to the vitality of Test cricket.

Packed with meticulous statistical insights and engaging storytelling, Crickonomics is a treasure trove for any cricket aficionado. It invites readers to see beyond the match scores and delve into the economic and social fabric that underpins this beloved game. From seasoned fans to casual followers, this incisive book promises to entertain and enlighten, potentially transforming how the game is watched and appreciated.

'Superb' Matthew Syed, The Times

'Fascinating' The Observer

'Crickonomics is packed with sufficient statistical analysis to have the most ardent cricket geek purring with pleasure' Mail on Sunday

'An insightful, Hawk-Eye-like analysis of the numbers behind cricket' Financial Times