Illy is the first full-length biography of Ray Illingworth, one of England’s most formidable post-war cricketers and a captain renowned for his tactical sharpness, resilience, and uncompromising competitiveness. Written by cricket journalist Mike Stevenson, the book traces Illingworth’s journey from Yorkshire cricket through to the pinnacle of the international game.
 
The biography explores Illingworth’s leadership of England during a turbulent era, including his role in reshaping the team’s fighting spirit in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Stevenson provides insight into Illingworth’s playing style, dressing-room authority, and his influence on England’s approach to Test cricket, set against the broader backdrop of changing professional attitudes in the sport.
 
Compact yet authoritative, Illy remains an important biographical record of a cricketer often overshadowed by flashier contemporaries but deeply respected by teammates and opponents alike.
 
This title was issued in relatively modest numbers and had a limited commercial lifespan. While not scarce in absolute terms, first editions in complete dust jackets are increasingly uncommon.