The sport that unites a nation of over a billion, has a rich tapestry of history woven with moments of glory, passion, and sheer excitement. One man, Amrit Mathur, has been witness to some of Indian cricket’s most memorable moments, and now, in his book “Pitchside: My Life in Indian Cricket,” he invites readers on an extraordinary journey through the inner workings of the game. As a seasoned cricket administrator with decades of experience, Mathur brings alive insightful first-person accounts, intriguing anecdotes, and captivating events from the perspective of an insider. Let’s embark on a nostalgic and enlightening ride through the golden era of Indian cricket.
A Glimpse Into Indian Cricket’s Most Memorable Moments
In “Pitchside,” Amrit Mathur takes us back in time to relive the magical moments that have shaped Indian cricket’s landscape. From the historic tour of South Africa in 1992 to the NatWest Series triumph in England in 2002, and the exhilarating ICC Cricket World Cup 2003 in South Africa, Mathur provides an up-close look at the events that have left an indelible mark on the hearts of cricket fans.
Behind the Scenes of Team India
As the manager of the Indian cricket team on that historic tour of South Africa in 1992, Amrit Mathur was granted a unique opportunity to witness the inner workings of one of the most celebrated cricket teams in the world. In his book “Pitchside: My Life in Indian Cricket,” he takes us on a fascinating journey behind the scenes, offering readers a rare and intimate peek behind the curtain of Indian cricket.
In the dressing room, where emotions ran high and nerves were on edge, Mathur brings alive the atmosphere that surrounded the players. It was a place where strategies were discussed, game plans were formulated, and the team’s collective spirit was forged. Through his vivid storytelling, we get a sense of the camaraderie among the players, the pre-match jitters, and the sense of responsibility each player felt towards representing the nation.
From the Drawing Board to the IPL
Amrit Mathur’s journey isn’t limited to the field but extends to the inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL). As a key figure involved in shaping the initial plans for the IPL and holding a key position with the Delhi Daredevils, Mathur provides invaluable insights into the creation of one of the most celebrated cricket leagues in the world.
Compelling Storytelling and Delightful Trivia
“Pitchside” isn’t just a memoir; it’s an authentic account filled with compelling storytelling and delightful trivia. Amrit Mathur’s words evoke nostalgia and laughter as he shares amusing anecdotes from his time in the cricketing world. From heartwarming camaraderie among players to the camaraderie of the BCCI, the book is a treasure trove for cricket enthusiasts.
Praise from Cricket Legends
The book has received high praise from cricket legends like Sunil Gavaskar, who hails Mathur as an all-rounder an administrator. Shashi Tharoor commends the book’s rare glimpse into elite cricket, and Mithali Raj applauds the behind-the-scenes account of India’s memorable tours and the IPL.
“Pitchside: My Life in Indian Cricket” is a book that every cricket fan must add to their collection. Amrit Mathur’s intimate and insightful account of Indian cricket’s golden moments makes for an engrossing read. With eye-catching subheadings, the book takes readers on a journey filled with passion, nostalgia, and laughter. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of cricket that binds a nation together. So, get ready to be captivated by the magic of cricket as seen through the eyes of an insider who has lived and breathed the game for over three decades.
