Jack Russell Unleashed

In this updated edition of his compelling autobiography which the English cricket authorities wanted to ban, Gloucestershire and England wicket-keeper Jack Russell provides his outspoken views on how the game is run.

Russell’s book is full of fascinating stories illustrating his own unique brand of eccentricity – from his peculiar dietary regime and tattered floppy hat through to his obsession with personal privacy, his painting and his passion for military history.

On the field, Russell cuts a sympathetic and admirable figure and is a persuasive critic of the England setup, especially during Ray Illingworth’s term as manager. He is also refreshingly honest in his accounts of the upheavals and dressing room rows that have punctured England’s recent tours abroad.

Fully updated with his behind-the-stumps account of the 1997/98 winter tour to the West Indies, Jack Russell’s book continues to be the benchmark against which all future cricket autobiographies will be judged.

‘An explosive book that challenges the strict censorship imposed by the mandarins at cricket’s headquarters’ Daily Mail