Shane Warne | thecricketlibrary.com

This week, we’re thrilled to bring you the inspiring story of James Knight—a master storyteller, literacy advocate, cricket tragic and bestselling author.

In this heartfelt conversation, James reflects on his journey from bush cricket fields to discovering the rich tapestry of cultures through cricket. He opens up about his battles with depression and shares how his experiences have shaped a life dedicated to making a positive difference.

We also dive into his latest book, The Spirit of the Warriors, and explore how he uses storytelling to inspire others and foster a love of literacy.

Needless to say, we will ensure James share with us who is on his invitation list to his dream cricket net session.

Don’t miss this powerful episode about cricket, culture, resilience, and the extraordinary impact one person can have on the lives of many.

About Spirit of the Warriors

Best-selling author, James Knight, says his next book, Spirit of the Warriors, is his most important work yet. Knight, who has written 15 non-fiction books, including the official autobiography of Australian cricketer, Brett Lee, and the widely acclaimed biography of social worker and 2020 Australian Local Hero of the Year, Bernie Shakeshaft, is venturing into middle-grade kids’ fiction for the first time.

Spirit of the Warriors tells the stories of two boys from distinctly different backgrounds. Jack Riordan lives on a drought-affected farm near the make-believe town, Stony Creek. When Ajeet Sharma and his family arrive from India, Jack is confronted with no longer being the star cricketer at his primary school. The narrative ebbs and flows through episodes that capture angst, anger, jealousies, and misunderstandings. (And let’s not forget schoolyard cheek!) Jack and Ajeet eventually learn each has painful secrets that have affected their lives. Will they overcome them? The answers lie in the strength of human spirit.

‘Spirit of the Warriors brings the Australian bush, India, and cricket all to life. It’s about embracing who we are.’

Josh Hazlewood, Australian fast bowler.

‘This is the first in a series of books that will bring sport and multiculturalism together,’ says Knight, who regularly conducts writing/literacy and storytelling workshops in schools in Australia and overseas. ‘My experiences in classrooms have taught me there is a real need for these types of books. Kids need stories in which they can see themselves as characters.’

Knight, a former television journalist, reported on several Australian cricket tours overseas, and since first visiting India to cover the 1996 Cricket World Cup, he has developed a relationship with the South Asian country that he calls his “second home.”

Elsa Hunter – WBBL Vibes – The Cricket Library

In this uplifting episode of the Cricket Library Podcast, Sydney Sixers rising star Elsa Hunter joins us for a vibrant conversation during a crucial stretch of the WBBL season. Elsa shares her insights on the Sixers' strong team vibe, the calm and powerful leadership of new captain Ash Gardner, and what it’s like learning from icons such as Ellyse Perry, Alyssa Healy, and the squad’s international talent. She reflects on her journey from playing local boys’ cricket in Malaysia to becoming a WNCL champion with the NSW Breakers, opening up about finding joy in the game, coping with pressure on the big stage, and navigating the friendly but fierce Sixers–Thunder rivalry. Elsa also talks about the influence of different coaches, the importance of the mental side of cricket, and her dream of one day representing Australia. A warm, inspiring, and engaging chat with one of the brightest young talents in the game. Tune in and enjoy!

Australia’s Shane Warne (right) and captain Ricky Ponting unsuccessfully appeal for the wicket of England’s Andrew Strauss to umpire Aleem Dar.
**Contributor:** PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo

In the illustrious career of cricket legend Shane Warne, the latter part was marked by a remarkable transformation. Former international umpire Peter Parker, reflects on this evolution, particularly highlighting Warne’s mastery of mind control and the development of new bowling tricks. In this blog post, we delve into the third phase of Shane Warne’s career, exploring the intricacies of his bowling techniques.

The Art of Mind Control

During the latter part of his career, Warne became the master of mind control, a skill that set him apart from his peers. Peter Parker notes Warne’s ability to manipulate batsmen, coercing them to play in a way that suited his strategy. Despite not possessing the same level of control as earlier in his career, Warne compensated with an enormous cricketing intellect. His delivery might have been slower through the air, but his cricketing IQ was unparalleled.

Bag of Tricks

Warne’s arsenal of spin bowling techniques expanded significantly in the latter years, thanks to his relentless pursuit of excellence. He incorporated party tricks into his repertoire, including two flippers – one of which was a traditional flick through the thumb and the middle finger, while the other emerged from the side of his hand. With big leg spin, small leg spin, and top spin in his toolkit, Warne’s variations posed a constant challenge for batsmen.

Shane Warne’s third phase in cricket was characterized by a mesmerizing display of mind control and an expanded repertoire of spin bowling techniques. As Peter Parker aptly observes, Warne’s journey involved not only refining his existing skills but also acquiring new ones.

In the end, Warne’s legacy is not just one of statistics but also of a cricketer who continually pushed the boundaries of his craft, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.