Lost Cricket Stickers: The Search for 1983's World of Cricket Sticker Album Heroes

Lost Cricket Stickers is a book that explores the 1983 cricket season through the lens of a Panini sticker album. It reveals the stories of lost heroes and their journeys, highlighting the pivotal year for cricket, including India's World Cup victory and England's loss to New Zealand. The book also explores the changes in the county game over the past four decades, from the John Player League to the Hundred and video analysis.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 11 March 2024
Publisher: Pitch Publishing Ltd

Lost Cricket Stickers is a captivating journey into the heart of the 1983 cricket season, unearthing lost heroes and unveiling their remarkable journeys through the lens of a Panini sticker album. 1983 marked a watershed moment in the world of cricket, with India securing their first World Cup victory and England suffering a historic defeat at home against New Zealand. The season was filled with extraordinary moments, including a 35-minute century and a remarkable 14 all out. Yorkshire found themselves at the bottom of the Championship, yet they managed to secure the John Player League title. Meanwhile, the South Africa tour rebels, who had been banned from representing England, dominated the county game. In the political realm, Margaret Thatcher secured a resounding election victory following the Falklands War.

This captivating tale revolves around the author's quest to track down a fondly remembered player from each county, each offering their unique perspective on the past and present. The book is meticulously based on the sole cricket sticker album of that era, providing a nostalgic and authentic glimpse into the world of cricket during that remarkable period.

Four decades have passed since 1983, and the county game has undergone a significant transformation. The Hundred and the widespread use of video analysis have replaced the John Player League and the tradition of pub sessions after a long day in the field. However, this shift in the landscape raises important questions about the direction and future of the sport.

On the one hand, the introduction of the Hundred has brought a fresh sense of excitement and innovation to the game. It has attracted a new generation of fans, particularly those who are drawn to the shorter format and the high-speed action. The use of video analysis has also helped players improve their skills and strategies, leading to more competitive and entertaining matches.

On the other hand, some argue that the changes have diminished the traditional essence of cricket. The focus on statistics and performance metrics has sometimes overshadowed the importance of the individual player's skill and character. The pub sessions and the camaraderie that came with them have been replaced by the sterile environment of the stadium, where the sound of the crowd is often replaced by the electronic buzz of the scoreboard.

Lost Cricket Stickers offers a poignant reflection on the evolution of the county game and the impact of technological advancements on the sport. It reminds us of the rich history and traditions that have shaped cricket over the years and the importance of preserving them while embracing the changes that can bring new life and excitement to the game.

In conclusion, Lost Cricket Stickers is a captivating and insightful journey into the world of 1983 cricket, unearthing lost heroes and revealing their remarkable journeys through the lens of a Panini sticker album. The book offers a nostalgic and authentic glimpse into the past, while also raising important questions about the future of the county game. As we navigate the changing landscape of cricket, it is essential to cherish the traditions that have sustained the sport for generations and to embrace the opportunities that technology can bring to enhance the fan experience.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 222 x 144 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781801506915