Perchance to Bowl by John Waite offers a compelling and thoughtful look at Test cricket through the eyes of one of South Africa’s finest wicketkeeper-batsmen of the post-war era. First published in 1961, the book captures a pivotal period in international cricket, just prior to South Africa’s isolation from the global game.
Blending personal memoir with technical insight, Waite reflects on his experiences behind the stumps and at the crease, providing readers with a rare dual perspective on the game. His writing explores the demands of wicketkeeping at the highest level, the tactical nuances of batting under pressure, and the evolving nature of Test cricket during the late 1950s and early 1960s.
The narrative is enriched with observations on teammates, opponents, and notable matches, offering valuable context to an era that saw intense competition between cricketing nations. Waite’s commentary is measured and intelligent, shedding light on the mental discipline, preparation, and adaptability required to succeed in elite cricket.
Importantly, the book also serves as a historical snapshot of South African cricket before its exclusion from international competition because of its apartheid policy, a system of racial segregation enforced by the government from 1948. Making this both a sporting memoir and a document of broader cricketing history.
Scarce book.
