Hazlewood can become most prolific pacer in Test history: McGrath
Australian cricket legend Glenn McGrath on Wednesday said compatriot Josh Hazlewood has the ability to topple him and become the…
My Life: Brett Lee with James Knight
Random House India
My Life is the story of Brett Lee the Australian speedster and the heartthrob of Indian cricket lovers. The foreword written by none other than South African legendary speedster Allan Donald acknowledges him as a combination of God given talent to bowl with humbleness.
The autobiography is candid, appealing and written in lucid language. It highlights the influence of his family, mates, mentors, music and cricket in his career. It also throws light on his childish desires and passion, his fascination with animals, pranks with his imposing elder brother Shane and quieter younger brother Grant.
In the brief description of his family lineage he leaves no stone unturned to praise his parents expressing gratitude at every footstep towards success. Brett frankly writes about his sudden transition to a celebrity status after becoming a member of the national side which initially caused much discomfort. It was difficult for him to handle in the earlier stages. Blazing in at 160 kilometres an hour, smashing many helmets, this handsome cricketer caused sleepless nights an ace batsman throughout the globe. The same person unhesitatingly speaks about his fear of heights and nervousness in his very first flight. His pride of having a baggy green is reflected in each of his delineations. The sentence which will, for obvious reasons, surprise all his fans is “I love playing the game, but to be honest, I generally find it boring to watch.”
Even when his compatriots were none other than Glen McGrath, Jason Gillespie and Shane Warne, he always proved his mettle. One can imagine oneself in the middle of the Australian dressing room or in the middle of the ground as he unwinds the pages of this superbly written book.
Lee clearly expresses his love for music, fashion and above all, India. His stint with the legendary Asha Bhosle finds a special mention in the book whom he refers to as the Aretha Franklin of Indian music.
Lee also pays respect to the greats like Sachin, Lara and other legends of world cricket. This book about Brett Lee can only be read relaxing with a smile on one’s face. This narrative by James Knight didn’t miss any statistical data, making it a treasure collection for every Lee fan.
Coordinator, Class IX, St. Vincent’s High and Technical School, Asansol.
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