The Establishment Boys: The Other Side of Kerry Packer's Cricket Revolution

This book tells the story of Australian Test cricketers who were plucked from the domestic game to take on full-strength international sides during Kerry Packer's World Series Cricket revolution. Some became greats, while others were lost in history. Despite the challenges, Test cricket survived thanks to these players, known as the Establishment Boys.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 12 February 2024
Publisher: Pitch Publishing Ltd

From 1977/78 to the reconciliation, two Australian cricket teams existed in parallel universes: the glamorous world of World Series Cricket, where stars shone and fortunes were made, and the gritty realm of Test cricket, fought by predominantly younger, poorly paid men, who upheld the tradition of the baggy green. Friendships were tested, and new alliances formed, as the public initially supported the traditional game before shifting their allegiance to World Series Cricket in greater numbers.

Kerry Packer emerged victorious in the cricketing war, but Test cricket survived thanks to the unwavering dedication of these players, known as the Establishment Boys. Until now, their contributions have been largely overlooked, and their stories deserve to be told.

During the era of Kerry Packer's World Series Cricket revolution, a remarkable transformation took place within the Australian Test cricketing scene. A select group of Australian players, previously overlooked and undervalued in the domestic game, were plucked to take on the full-strength international sides. These cricketers embarked on a journey that would shape their careers and leave an indelible mark on the history of the sport.

Some of these players went on to achieve cricketing greatness, their names etched in the annals of the game. Their exceptional skills, talent, and determination propelled them to the forefront of international cricket, captivating fans worldwide. Their performances on the field were nothing short of extraordinary, and they became household names.

However, not all of these players found their place in the limelight. Many were lost in the footnotes of history, their contributions overshadowed by the more prominent figures. Nevertheless, their stories are equally important and worthy of being shared. Each player had a unique journey, filled with triumphs, challenges, and personal growth.

From 1977/78 to the reconciliation, two Australian cricket teams competed in parallel universes: the glamorous world of World Series Cricket, where stars shone and fortunes were made, and the attritional reality of Test cricket, fought by predominantly younger, poorly paid men, who upheld the tradition of the baggy green. The public's perception of the game shifted and evolved, as they were exposed to the excitement and spectacle of World Series Cricket. However, it was the Test cricket teams that remained the heart and soul of the sport, representing the true spirit of cricket and the values it cherished.

As the cricketing war unfolded, friendships were tested, and new bonds formed. The players, who had once been strangers, now shared a common goal: to represent their country with pride and honor. They faced countless challenges, both on and off the field, but their determination and resilience never wavered. They battled against the best international teams, pushing themselves to their limits and achieving remarkable feats.

In the end, Kerry Packer emerged victorious in the cricketing war. However, it was the players who carried the Australian banner for the game who truly survived. These players became known as the Establishment Boys, and their contributions to Test cricket have been largely overlooked. They were the unsung heroes, the backbone of the Australian cricket team, who played a vital role in the sport's development and success.

It is time to acknowledge and celebrate the Establishment Boys' achievements. Their stories deserve to be told, to inspire future generations of cricketers and to remind us of the rich history and tradition of Test cricket. These players may have been lost in the footnotes of history, but their impact on the sport is immeasurable. They paved the way for future generations, and their legacy will continue to be felt for years to come.

In conclusion, the story of the Australian Test cricketers plucked from the backwaters of the domestic game to take on full-strength international sides is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and talent. From 1977/78 to the reconciliation, two Australian teams competed in parallel universes, each representing a different facet of the sport. While World Series Cricket brought glamour and excitement, Test cricket remained the true test of a cricketer's skills and character. The players who carried the Australian banner for the game, known as the Establishment Boys, played a vital role in the sport's survival and development. Their stories deserve to be told, to honor their contributions and to inspire future generations of cricketers.

Weight: 448g
Dimension: 144 x 223 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781801506717