Whenever I hear about the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21, I am reminded of the early morning viewings, David vs Goliath narrative and triumph of the human spirit. But there has been an urge to know more. How these men went beyond their call of duty to give cricket fans across the globe a cricket tour that will go down in history as one of the best. Enters, The Miracle Makers by Bharat Sundaresan and Gaurav Joshi.
The Miracle Makers presents a first-hand account of what transpired in those three fateful months when India toured Australia. When Bharat announced he was writing a book on this momentous tour, I knew I was in for a joyride. For two particular reasons. I'd read his previous works and found his writing candid and humorous. And the fact that he along with Gaurav had covered the entire tour on the ground was enough reason for me to get excited.
Being with the team and coaching staff has allowed the writer-duo to build a compelling narrative. The earlier chapters detailing the challenges posed by the pandemic are fascinating. Learning about the struggles these players had to go through was eye-opening.
This is the highlight of Bharat's writing. He reminds you that your favorite player or star is also a human. They go through the same emotions. They too feel vulnerable. He is a master when it comes to effortlessly bridging the gap between a player and the fan.
My personal favorite is the chapter on Ajinkya Rahane. That Rahane led the team compassionately after the Adelaide debacle is no mystery. But the chapter goes a step ahead in highlighting his hidden and unknown personality. It is replete with anecdotes from his career and life, shedding light on how he goes on to value character over performance. I shall eagerly wait for him to tell his story in detail someday.
Talking about stories and anecdotes, there are plenty of them in the book. Not limited to just players. But also covering men who worked behind the scenes. The coaching staff, net bowlers, physios and throw down specialists. Exactly why you won't be able to put the book down. Some of them from a strategy point of view make for an exciting read. The authors have also thrown in a few personal stories to give you a peek of everything that went behind making this book happen.
Final Take: Must Read
Barring a few typos in some of the chapters, the book makes for a breezy read. The description of players' skill sets, performances and landmark moments is amazingly done. The book doesn't restrict itself to just the Test Series. The ODI and T20 series find ample space. Something that is rarely talked about. The book does justice to the incredible story. Cricket fans would enjoy reading this one. For others, the book is a great starting point to know about this unique and once in a lifetime series.
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