The mere name simply exudes cricket and carries with it the promise of class, knowledge and authority on the sport. This is exactly what you will get when you read the first ever South African edition of The Wisden Cricketer, on sale now.
With the knowledgeable Robert Houwing as editor and a distinguished editorial board -comprising Vince van der Bijl, Jonty Rhodes, Michael Doman, Mike Haysman, Imtiaz Patel, John Stern (UK editor) and Sambit Bal (Asia editor) - The Wisden Cricketer will deliver a genuinely international magazine at a South African price.
The first issue features:
* A comprehensive preview of England's tour, including a comparative study of key allrounders Jacques Kallis and Andrew Flintoff, SA's blueprint for possible success, and interviews with the visitors' pace sensation Steve Harmison and Johannesburg-born batsman Andrew Strauss;
* A fiery interview with new national coach Ray Jennings, in which he lambastes - to varying degrees! -- such established players in the SA setup as Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis and Nicky Boje;
* Twelve specialist tips from master batsmen around the world;
* A dossier of famous dressing-room feuds;
* Shane Warne's revelations of his intended future in golf on the Seniors Tour;
* Rugby personality Nick Mallett's memories as a cricketer - including a duel or two with Ian Botham;
* A visit to the Langa home of new SA wicketkeeper Thami Tsolekile;
* Specific focus on each of the six domestic franchises;
* All-embracing 'World View' section.
"The Wisden Cricketer magazine's first edition is a landmark for cricket in South Africa. Wisden is the definitive benchmark for cricketers worldwide and their Almanack is the cricketer's 'bible'," says Editorial board member, Vince van der Bijl.
"I grew up with Wisden - my father, Pieter, had the collection handed down by my grandfather. Dad bought his first Almanack when he first appeared in it in 1928, I then bought my first edition when I first appeared in 1969. You don't feel you have made the cricket scene until you appear in a publication. That is what Wisden means to the game and that is why the launch of this excellent, definitive and informative magazine is such an important event.
SA cricket is going through a lean time and many innovations and changes are required to get our game back on track. One such innovation is this magazine which captures the essence of cricket, informs its readers of global and local events, gives coaching tips and ideas, identifies trends and importantly sets standards for our great game.
Well done to Touchline Media for taking this step that will help boost the game and give it a wider audience and understanding. This is a compulsory read and subscription for every cricket player, lover or follower."
