The Tour: The Story of the England Cricket Team Overseas 1877-2022

England cricket tours are a phenomenon with few parallels, with the Test, one-day, and Twenty20 sides typically overseas for around 150 days a year. In this definitive history, Simon Wilde explores England's tours from every angle, celebrating great team performances and individual feats but also telling of adventure and misadventure, mishaps, and scandal. Despite the modern-day tour resembling a business trip, they remain fragile enterprises, and the mental toll can be heavy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 592 pages
Publication date: 18 January 2024
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

An England cricket tour is a remarkable phenomenon with few parallels in the world of sports. The England Test, one-day, and Twenty20 sides embark on extensive overseas journeys, spending approximately 150 days a year in various destinations ranging from Barbados to Brisbane, Cape Town to Colombo. Since 1877, they have played over 1,000 fixtures away from their home country.

In his comprehensive and captivating book, Simon Wilde delves into the rich history of England's tours from every angle. He celebrates the outstanding team performances and individual feats, from legendary players like James Lillywhite to modern-day heroes like Ben Stokes. Every captain dreams of leading his team abroad and returning as a hero, but Wilde also sheds light on the adventures, mishaps, and scandals that have accompanied these tours throughout the years.

While the modern-day tour may resemble a business trip more than the grand voyages of the past, it remains a fragile enterprise. The mental toll on players can be significant, especially in the face of intense competition from franchise tournaments across the globe. This raises questions about the future of the tour, as international cricket faces unprecedented challenges.

England's cricket tours have not only shaped the sport but also played a significant role in shaping the country's cultural and diplomatic relations. They have brought people from different backgrounds together, fostering understanding and friendship. The tours have also provided a platform for players to showcase their skills on the international stage and gain valuable experience.

In conclusion, England's cricket tours are a testament to the sport's enduring popularity and the resilience of the players who embark on these journeys. While they face challenges and uncertainties, the tours continue to captivate fans around the world and play a vital role in the development of international cricket. This definitive history by Simon Wilde provides a valuable insight into the rich tapestry of England's touring history, and it is a must-read for cricket enthusiasts and sports enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471198502