Captain's Diary 2009: From the Fields of India to the Fight for the Ashe s

by Ricky Ponting

A Season of Tests, Turmoil and Twenty20 Few Australian cricket captains have had a tougher time than that experienced by Ricky Ponting in 2008-09 - a controversial test tour of India, series home and away against South Africa, more than 30 ODIs, the ICC World twenty20. And, finally, the fight for the Ashes.Ponting began the year with a better winning percentage than any other captain in test history, but this adventure ended in disappointment, as his young side fell just short in England after a typically dramatic confrontation. the task of replacing recently retired champions such as Warne, McGrath, Gilchrist and Hayden is still a work in progress. However, this is a story with many positives, as Ponting's Australians produced a number of impressive performances, most notably in South Africa, when they stunned the home side in consecutive matches, and at Leeds, when they completed one of the most decisive test wins of recent times. the emergence of young guns such as Mitchell Johnson, Ben Hilfenhaus, Phillip Hughes and Peter Siddle points to an exciting future. throughout the period of cricket recalled in Ashes Diary 2009, Ponting played with a steely spirit that impressed many observers, including the Guardian newspaper which, after the final Ashes test, wrote, 'Staring down the barrel of a loss that must have hurt more than any other in his career, Ponting showed what a class act he is.' During the series, he had become Australia's highest test run-scorer. At the end, the crowd at the Oval gave him an extended standing ovation.this insider's account follows the path that led to this increased respect. It had been quite a year ...

563 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2009

Reviews

[Daniel Lang · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Captain's Diary 2009: From the Fields of India to the Fight for the Ashes" by Ricky Ponting provides a candid and insightful glimpse into the world of international cricket, offering readers an engaging narrative that reflects both the triumphs and challenges faced by the Australian cricket team during a pivotal year.

One of the notable strengths of Ponting's diary is his ability to provide a behind-the-scenes perspective. The book takes readers into the heart of the action, offering a firsthand account of the strategies, decisions, and emotions involved in leading a top cricket team. Ponting's writing style is straightforward and sincere, allowing fans to connect with the captain on a personal level.

The diary format adds a sense of immediacy to the storytelling, capturing the highs and lows of the cricketing year in real-time. Ponting doesn't shy away from discussing defeats and setbacks, providing a balanced and honest portrayal of the team's journey. This transparency enhances the authenticity of the narrative and offers readers a deeper understanding of the challenges inherent in international cricket.

Ponting's reflections on key matches, players, and pivotal moments enrich the narrative, giving cricket enthusiasts valuable insights into the dynamics of the sport at the highest level. The inclusion of personal anecdotes and interactions with teammates adds a human touch, making the book not just a chronicle of matches but also a reflection of the camaraderie and bonds forged within the team.

While the diary primarily focuses on cricket, it may leave some readers wishing for a more expansive exploration of Ponting's personal experiences and reflections beyond the cricket field. Additionally, those less familiar with the intricacies of cricket may find certain sections heavily centered on match details.

In conclusion, "Captain's Diary 2009" by Ricky Ponting is a compelling read for cricket fans who appreciate an insider's perspective on the game. Ponting's sincerity, storytelling, and the depth of insights into the world of cricket make this diary a worthwhile addition to the library of any enthusiast eager to relive the ups and downs of a pivotal year in Australian cricket.