Ashes Diary 2005

by Ricky Ponting, Brian Murgatroyd

In this year's diary, Australia cricket captain Ricky Ponting shares behind the scenes stories and unique insights into what makes the Australian side so successful, including personal assessments of his champion team mates and what it's like to be the captain of the most famous cricket battle: the Ashes.

Genres: Nonfiction

544 pages, Paperback

First published October 26, 2005

Reviews

[Johnny Sayer · Rating 2 out of 5]

Two key things here. 1) This is absolutely not an Ashes 2005 diary. Not until 200 pages in anyway. Absolute liberties taken in the naming of this. 2) Regardless of how much Punter knows his cricket, this is lifeless, dull and miserable. If there’s a sniff of change to the game, whether technology related, Punter is miserable and anti-it. Whatever it is. From T20 to Hawkeye on LBWs. He’s almost unequivocally wrong.

I did, however, learn that he’s allergic to aspirin though. So, there’s that.

[Daniel Lang · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ricky Ponting's "Ashes Diary 2005" offers readers a compelling and intimate look into one of the most fiercely contested Ashes series in cricket history. The paperback serves as a personal account of Ponting's experiences as the captain of the Australian cricket team during the 2005 Ashes series against England.

The book provides a unique behind-the-scenes perspective, delving into the high-pressure environment of international cricket and the intense rivalry between Australia and England. Ponting's writing style is candid and engaging, allowing readers to connect with the emotional highs and lows of the series. His reflections on key moments, strategic decisions, and personal experiences add depth to the narrative.

The highlight of the book is Ponting's honest self-assessment and acknowledgment of the challenges faced by the Australian team. He doesn't shy away from discussing the moments that didn't go according to plan, providing a balanced and realistic portrayal of the series.

While the book offers great insights into the mind of a cricket captain, some readers may find the narrative occasionally too focused on match details, potentially making it less accessible to those unfamiliar with cricket. Additionally, a broader exploration of the team dynamics and interactions with other players could have added more layers to the storytelling.

Despite these minor drawbacks, "Ashes Diary 2005" stands out as a captivating read for cricket enthusiasts and sports fans alike. Ponting's account serves as a valuable addition to the literature on cricketing memoirs, offering a genuine and unfiltered look at the challenges and triumphs that define a memorable Ashes series.