A new book celebrating the personal stories, memories and emotions behind the game of cricket has been launched at the Kia Oval today (April 10), bringing together voices from across the cricketing world whilst raising funds for the Cricketers’ Trust.
‘What Cricket Means To Me’ is a unique collection of reflections from players, broadcasters, administrators, fans and grassroots volunteers who share how cricket has shaped their lives. The book reveals the human side of the sport – the friendships, communities and life lessons that exist beyond the scoreboard.
The project was inspired by former England Women’s international Gill Smith, from Alnwick who wanted to give something back to the game that had given her so much.
Working alongside photographer Neil Brinsdon, from Morpeth the pair set out to gather voices from every corner of cricket – from elite professionals to grassroots players, umpires, scorers, volunteers and lifelong fans.
Almost 100 contributors have now shared their stories and stood in front of Brinsdon’s camera from former England players such as Charlotte Edwards, to Jonathan Agnew and Andy Zaltzman, to administrators and ambassadors. The result is a collection of personal reflections that range from humorous dressing-room memories to deeply moving accounts of how cricket has helped shape lives and build lifelong friendships.
Proceeds from the book will support the Cricketers’ Trust, the charitable arm of the Professional Cricketers’ Association, which provides vital support for current and former professional cricketers and their families.
The Trust offers assistance in times of crisis, including mental health support, specialist medical care, financial guidance and emotional support.
Former England women’s international and author, Gill Smith, said: “Cricket means something different to everyone, but the one thing that comes through in every story is the sense of belonging the game creates. For many of us, cricket becomes a second family.
“Supporting the Cricketers’ Trust isn’t just about charity, it’s about looking after our cricketing family – the people who have given their passion, talent and time to the game we all love.”
The book has two launch events, the first at the Kia Oval (April 10) and the second at Headingley Cricket Ground (May 15).
You can purchase the book by clicking here. Or find out more on Instagram @whatcricketmeanstome
ABOUT THE AUTHORS:
Gill Smith first picked up a bat on the beach at Sandsend, near Whitby, in 1975, playing cricket with her father and the family dog, Cindy. Ten years later she was representing Yorkshire Women in the County Championships before moving on to spend six seasons with Middlesex Women.
In 1986 she achieved a lifelong dream when she was selected for the England Women’s Cricket Team, making her debut in both Test and One Day International cricket against India Women’s National Cricket Team.
Her left-arm medium-pace bowling took her around the world for seven years. She played in two Women’s Cricket World Cup finals, including the unforgettable 1993 victory at Lord’s Cricket Ground.
She still holds the record for the best One Day International bowling average in women’s cricket — though she modestly notes that “the game has changed a bit since then.”
Cricket gave Gill far more than achievements on the field. It gave her lifelong friendships, unforgettable experiences and what she describes as a “second family”.
Neil Brinsdon began pursuing photography in 2014 after a successful career in financial services.
A keen sportsman at school, he captained his school cricket team before his love of football led him into grassroots coaching.
His interest in cricket continued through memorable moments such as a visit to Trent Bridge during the famous 1981 Ashes series.
In 2021 he published his first book, Beyond the Mask, Through the Lens, a photographic reflection on the impact of COVID-19 through the stories of people in his community.
Several collaborations followed, including What Football Means To Me in 2023.
His work combines portrait photography with storytelling, capturing the experiences of remarkable people through both images and words.
