Playing with Teeth: How Scotland's Cricketers Broke the Cycle of Glorious Failure

On June 10, 2018, Scotland defeated England in cricket, marking a significant turning point in Scottish sports history. Scotland's first-ever win over England demonstrated the team's ability to compete with the best players in the world and showcased a remarkable turnaround in Scottish sport. Playing with Teeth, based on extensive interviews with key individuals, chronicles the team's journey to success and highlights the cultural changes that unlocked their potential. The book offers valuable insights into the history of Scottish cricket and serves as a blueprint for other Scottish sports teams.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 20 June 2022
Publisher: Pitch Publishing Ltd

On the afternoon of June 10, 2018, Edinburgh became the epicenter of the cricketing world as Scotland secured an historic victory over England, marking a remarkable turnaround in the history of Scottish sport. In a nation often associated with tales of misfortune rather than triumphs, this triumph was about so much more than just a single result. It showcased that Scotland's cricketers had finally grasped the essential ingredients necessary to secure victories.

"Playing with Teeth" takes readers on a captivating journey, beginning with the disastrous campaign at the 2014 World T20 qualifier. The book vividly describes the cultural transformations that unlocked the team's potential and propelled them forward, breaking free from the narrative of past glory and failure. Through extensive interviews with key figures at the heart of the action, "Playing with Teeth" captures a unique era in Scottish cricket's history while offering valuable insights that can benefit the entire sporting landscape of Scotland.

The victory against England was not just a fluke; it was the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Scotland's cricketers had embraced a new culture of excellence, one that emphasized discipline, teamwork, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. They had developed a deep understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, and they had implemented strategies to capitalize on their advantages while mitigating their disadvantages.

One of the key factors that contributed to Scotland's success was the appointment of a new coaching team led by former England captain Paul Collingwood. Collingwood brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, and he quickly identified the areas where Scotland needed to improve. He implemented a rigorous training program, focused on developing the players' skills and fitness, and instilled a culture of discipline and accountability within the team.

The players themselves played a pivotal role in Scotland's transformation. They embraced the new coaching philosophy, worked tirelessly to improve their game, and displayed a determination and resilience that was unmatched. They formed strong bonds and a deep sense of camaraderie, which helped them overcome the challenges they faced on and off the field.

The victory against England was not just a moment of celebration for Scotland's cricketers; it was a turning point in the history of Scottish sport. It showed that with the right field, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, anything is possible. It inspired a generation of young athletes to pursue their dreams and strive for greatness, and it showcased the potential of Scotland as a sporting powerhouse.

In conclusion, Scotland's historic victory over England on June 10, 2018, was a momentous occasion that showcased the team's ability to compete with the best players on the planet. It marked a remarkable turnaround in the history of Scottish sport, and it provided a blueprint for other sports in Scotland to emulate. "Playing with Teeth" is a captivating account of Scotland's journey to success, filled with insightful interviews, vivid anecdotes, and valuable lessons that can inspire athletes and sports enthusiasts alike. The victory against England was not just a single result; it was a testament to the power of teamwork, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Weight: 402g
Dimension: 144 x 223 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781801501217