He says Pakistani cricket is a relatively unexplored subject. “The library at Lord's is rich in volumes from every major cricketing nation. Pakistan occupies barely half a shelf. If this book does nothing else, I hope it will stimulate an interest in Pakistan cricket.”

“Everywhere I went in Pakistan, I was aware that people feel a huge sense of pride in their country. Cricket is played in the plains of Sindh and in the mountains of the north.

It is played by the army and the Taliban. It is enjoyed by all Pakistan's sects and religions.”

The author rates Imran Khan highly.  “Imran Khan took charge at a vital moment in the evolution of Pakistan cricket.

From the late 1970s onward, the game was exploding in popularity and significance. Pakistan cricketers were no longer patronised by the dominant white cricketing nations.