Sheffield Cricket Lovers' Society Year Book 2013

20 Prepared by Kew Publicity for Simon & Schuster CMJ: A CRICKETING LIFE Christopher Martin-Jenkins Published by Simon & Schuster 12 April, £25.00, Hardback Christopher Martin-Jenkins , or CMJ as he is known to his legions of fans, is regarded by many as the voice of cricket; an unparalleled authority whose insight and passion for the game have enriched the airwaves and enlivened the cricket pages for more than 40 years. He has reported on some of the greatest innings, commentated on the finest players and provided expert witness to the many changes in the modern game. Now, for the first time CMJ tells his own story in A CRICKETING LIFE , recalling the key moments that have shaped his life and the great characters he has met along the way. Born in Peterborough, and raised in Surrey, CMJ had a brief and unspectacular spell as a county cricketer before turning to journalism. In the book he looks back at his early days with the BBC, making his first broadcasts for Test Match Special and presenting everything from Sports Report to the football results. He recalls his years at The Cricketer magazine working under the legendary E W ‘Jim’ Swanton and his return as editor in 1981, as well as his time as cricket correspondent for The Daily Telegraph , and then The Times . CMJ recounts stories of his fellow commentators on Test Match Special including John Arlott, Brian Johnston, Henry Blofeld and Jonathan Agnew; looks back at the highs and lows of touring overseas; reports on his challenging year as MCC President; and considers the future of Test cricket in light of the popularity of Twenty20 and the Indian Premier League (IPL). He also talks about the importance of his family, his wife, Judy, and three children. A CRICKETING LIFE is an entertaining and insightful memoir from one of the most respected and best-loved commentators in the game, an essential read for all devotees of the sport.