Thommo Declares! is a lively and affectionate biography of one of Australian cricket’s most flamboyant and charismatic fast bowlers — Jeff Thomson, universally known as “Thommo.” Written by respected cricket writer John Byrell, this 1986 first edition captures the energy, humour, and unpredictability of a player who electrified world cricket in the 1970s.
 
The book traces Thomson’s journey from suburban Sydney to international cricketing superstardom. Emerging from New South Wales grade cricket, Thommo’s raw pace and sling-shot action quickly brought him into the Australian Test side during a transformative period for the game.
 
His partnership with Dennis Lillee became one of the most feared fast-bowling duos in cricket history, terrorising batsmen with extreme pace on lively Australian pitches.
 
Byrell paints a vivid portrait not just of the cricketer, but of the man — irreverent, cheeky, and often misunderstood. Thomson’s reputation as a “larrikin” is explored in depth: his humour, his refusal to conform to establishment expectations, and his occasional controversies both on and off the field. The title itself reflects the bold, carefree style with which Thommo approached both life and cricket.
 
The book covers:
His breakthrough Ashes performances and impact on English batsmen
The fiery era of 1970s Test cricket
The World Series Cricket revolution
Injuries, comebacks, and later career chapters
Personal reflections and anecdotes that reveal the personality behind the pace
 
Rather than a dry statistical account, Thommo Declares! is written in an engaging, conversational tone. It captures the spirit of Australian cricket in a rebellious era — when cricket was raw, fast, and fiercely competitive.