The Bedsers: Twinning Truimphs

by Alan Hill, John Major (Foreword)

Sporting twins Alec and Eric Bedser are a remarkable duo. From humble origins at Woking to their reign as key members of the Surrey team during the magnificent succession of seven championships in the 1950s, they share a rare and precious relationship. The Bedsers is Alan Hill's engrossing study which explores the puzzles of their identical twinship. Alec Bedser was England's bowling standard bearer in the years following the Second World War. His exceptional strength and prowess yielding almost 1,924 wickets, including 236 in 51 Tests. He was at the peak of his powers in the 1953 series against Australia, when his aggregate of 39 wickets beat the previous record held by Maurice Tate. It included match figures of 14 wickets for 99 runs at Nottingham - a feat only surpassed against Australia by Wilfred Rhodes, Hedley Verity and Jim Laker. High among his other distinctions was his record against Don Bradman whom he dismissed on eight occasions.After retirement, Alex maintained his connection with cricket in fulfilling administrative duties, which included a record term as Chairman of the Test selectors. Knighted in 1997 for his services to cricket, he is the only English bowler to receive the honour.

281 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Venky · Rating 3 out of 5]

A rousing saga of a pair of talented twins, triumphant cricketers and thorough gentlemen. Although a predominant portion of the book is dedicated to showcasing the exploits of the younger twin Alec Bedser (to a great extent a consequence of him being one of England's greatest medium pacers), Eric's honest efforts and fortitude also makes for some enthralling reading. Distinguishing themselves both on and off the field by virtue of their deeds, dedication and determination, the Bedser twins were (and still are) accorded universal acclaim, adulation and admiration across the cricketing globe. Alan Hill and John Major have achieved a capital victory by penning this marvelous work of exquisite art. The Bedser twins would surely concur!