Book Club 12: Simon Wilde - Chasing Jessop: The Mystery of England Cricket's Oldest Record

Shrouded in myth and mystery, Gilbert Jessop’s 76-ball century is an English cricket record that has stood since 1902. Renowned cricket journalist and historian Simon Wilde has attempted to capture the celebratory mood of the nation that was the backdrop to Jessop’s stunning knock. With the brutal Boer War having ended and a new Monarch in place, it was an exciting time of change and advancement in the United Kingdom. Unfortunately, the cricket team hadn’t got the memo and having already relinquished The Ashes, England turned to their ultimate impact player to restore some pride. What transpired has gone down in history, with Jessop leading a remarkable run chase which wouldn’t look out of place under Ben Stokes. How many balls did he really face? Some new discoveries have helped untangle one of the most disputed innings in cricket history.

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