The Rothmans Test Cricket Almanack (1962–63 Series) is a scarce Australian cricket booklet produced to accompany the 1962–63 Ashes Test series, one of the most celebrated contests in cricket history. Compiled by Sydney Smith, a leading administrator and former Test team manager, the almanack continues Rothmans’ tradition of issuing authoritative, non-retail cricket annuals focused on Test cricket at the highest level.
 
This edition covers Australia’s forthcoming contest with England (MCC), setting the scene for a fiercely anticipated Ashes series captained by Ted Dexter, and follows on from the dramatic impact of the West Indies’ recent tours. The foreword captures the heightened atmosphere surrounding Test cricket in the early 1960s, describing the Ashes as the “ultimate contest” and reflecting the cultural centrality of Test cricket in Australia during the era.
 
The booklet includes:
Statistical records of Test matches
Individual player performances from both nations
Historical context and commentary relevant to the 1962–63 series
A contemporary administrative perspective on elite Test cricket
 
As noted in the foreword, this was the fourth Test Cricket Almanack produced by Rothmans, reinforcing its place within a limited and now highly collectible series.
 
This copy is signed by Arthur Morris in blue ink on the opening pages. Morris, a cornerstone of Australian post-war batting and a member of Don Bradman’s 1948 “Invincibles”, remains one of the most respected figures in Ashes history. His signature significantly enhances the desirability of this booklet.
 
The almanack comes from the Arthur Morris Collection and is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, providing strong provenance and assurance for collectors.
 
Originally produced in limited numbers as a non-retail corporate publication, the 1962–63 Rothmans Test Cricket Almanack is believed to have had a modest print run consistent with similar Australian cricket booklets of the era, likely in the low five figures. Surviving examples are now scarce, with signed copies by Arthur Morris particularly rare.