Greg Growden’s Jack Fingleton: The Man Who Stood Up To Bradman examines Australian cricketer-turnedcommentator Jack Fingleton OBE, a stubborn but talented opening batsman who represented Australia during the infamous Bodyline series. Fingleton is one of many cricketers whose career played out in the shadow of Don Bradman. The outspoken, sometimes caustic Fingleton is renowned for his clashes with Bradman, which continued long after both had put down their bats. While some attribute the conflict to Catholic-Protestant tensions, Fingleton’s greatest gripe was that Bradman leaked dressing-room discussions during the Bodyline series for which Fingleton was blamed. In fact, this biography shows that while Bradman’s on-field feats endeared him to the nation, his prickly character didn’t always endear him to his teammates. Through historical research and interviews with family, friends, and fellow cricketers, Growden offers insight into Australia’s cricket history and dressing-room politics. Easy to read, this is as much a story of humanity, history, humour, and rivalry, as it is about sport. Released in time for Christmas and catering to existing cricket fans’ tastes, this book will renew interest in Fingleton, the Bodyline series and Bradman.

Fiona Crawford is a Brisbane-based writer, editor, proofreader, and sports fanatic

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