Beyond The Pavilion: Reflections on a Life in Cricket

Beyond The Pavilion is a memoir by Barry Knight that spans seventy years of social, regional, and cultural history, including his international playing career and experiences touring India, Pakistan, Australia, and New Zealand in the 1960s. It also includes stories about life in London in the Swinging Sixties and his place in the DOliveira affair and the anti-apartheid protests.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 14 August 2022
Publisher: Quiller Publishing Ltd

Beyond The Pavilion is a captivating memoir that delves into seventy years of social, regional, and cultural history, offering a unique perspective through the eyes of one of cricket's earliest Test match wayfarers, Barry Knight. As a ten-year-old, Barry had the privilege of witnessing Don Bradman's legendary 1948 'Invincibles' at Lords, an experience that left a lasting impression on his young mind. His early days were spent immersed in the world of street cricket in London's East End, where he not only honed his skills but also captained his school team against Eton College, showcasing his remarkable talent from a young age.

At the tender age of fifteen, Barry's cricketing journey took a significant turn when he was recruited to play for Essex. His exceptional all-round abilities quickly earned him recognition as one of England's finest cricketers. Throughout his international playing career, Barry had the opportunity to tour India, Pakistan, Australia, and New Zealand in the 1960s, encountering some of the greatest players of his era. He recounts his tours with legendary figures such as Fred Trueman, Geoff Boycott, Ted Dexter, and Colin Cowdrey, as well as facing off against the finest Australian, Indian, Pakistani, and West Indian players of that time.

In addition to his cricketing exploits, Barry's memoir also delves into his experiences of life in London during the Swinging Sixties. He shares stories about his involvement in the DOliveira affair and the anti-apartheid protests, which played a significant role in shaping the social and political climate of the era. After retiring from cricket, Barry moved to Australia in the 1970s and embarked on a new chapter in his life. He became Australias first professional cricket coach, mentoring and developing three Test match captains: Allan Border, Mark Taylor, and Steve Waugh. His influence on their careers was profound, and he played a crucial role in the development of World Series Cricket.

Beyond The Pavilion is not just a memoir of cricket; it is a testament to the human spirit and the power of perseverance. Barry's journey from a young boy playing street cricket in London to becoming a respected cricketer and coach is a testament to his talent, dedication, and resilience. The book includes endorsements from leading players, commentators, and journalists, including Sir Garfield Sobers, Allan Border, Ian Chappell, Barry Richards, Geoffrey Boycott, Doug Walters, and Sir Michael Parkinson. These endorsements further validate the significance of Barry's achievements and the impact he has had on the world of cricket.

The book is richly illustrated with photographs from Andrew Leemings and other private collections, adding an extra layer of visual appeal to the reader's experience. Each photograph captures a moment in time, providing a glimpse into the world of cricket during Barry's era and beyond. Whether you are a cricket enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who enjoys a good story, Beyond The Pavilion is a must-read. It offers a captivating glimpse into the life and times of a remarkable cricketer and coach, and provides a valuable insight into the social, cultural, and political landscape of the 20th century.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 244 x 167 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781846893704