The Tale of Two Tests (1962) is one of Richie Benaud’s most admired analytical cricket works, focusing on two of the most dramatic and tactically fascinating Test matches ever played. Written by the man who captained Australia in both encounters, the book offers a rare combination of first-hand leadership insight and clear-eyed tactical analysis.
Rather than a conventional match report, Benaud dissects decision-making, momentum shifts, captaincy pressures, and psychological factors that shaped the outcomes. The book is widely regarded as an early example of the thoughtful, articulate cricket commentary style that later defined Benaud’s broadcasting career.
With contributions and contextual framing involving Frank Worrell and Peter May, the book also captures a pivotal moment in cricket history, when leadership, sportsmanship, and tactical sophistication were evolving rapidly in the early 1960s.
The Tale of Two Tests – Richie Benaud (1962) 1st Ed HC + DJ | Cricket Classic
Author: Richie Benaud
Title: The Tale of Two Tests
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton
Place of Publication: London, England
Year: 1962
Edition: First Edition
Format: Hardcover with original dust jacket
Pages: 125 pages
Condition: Dust Jacket: Original dust jacket present. Price clipped (see flap). General light shelf wear and handling marks consistent with age. Jacket remains intact and visually appealing. Boards: Red cloth boards in very good condition, with bright gilt lettering to spine. Minor rubbing only. Spine & Binding: Square and firm; binding tight. Pages: Clean and well-preserved throughout, with no loose or missing pages. Overall: A very good copy of this 1962 first edition.
