“Many thanks for a splendid interview”. UPDATED!

Last week, one of the greatest sports broadcasters of all time passed away. His name is Richie Benaud. I had the great pleasure of meeting and interviewing Richie back in 2005. Unfortunately I do not have a copy of that interview but I do have the cue & questions I used on that day. I also have an autographed copy of his excellent book My Spin On Cricket

Full interview with Richie Benaud.

Author: Richie Benaud – Book “My Spin on Cricket” – Date: PRE REC at 11.30am Monday 31st July – Cricketing legend, Richie Benaud, will visit Waterstone’s on Deansgate to sign copies of his book ‘My Spin on Cricket’ Time: 12.30pm – Venue: Waterstone’s, 91 Deansgate, Manchester 0161 8391248 – Contact: KAREN GEARY ON 020 78736141

CUE

Few former sports stars can genuinely be described as a living legend – but, without a doubt, one of them is Richie Benaud.

The former Australian cricket captain and commentator is here in Manchester to promote his book, “My Spin on Cricket”.

A very good afternoon to you.

You’re here to coincide with the second test between England and Pakistan at Old Trafford. What did you make of it?

Why did you decide to write the book?

You’re now 75 years old … few people on earth have seen more games of cricket than you … how has the game changed?

Is there too much Test cricket played at the moment?

This year is the 40th anniversary (1956) of the legendary “Laker Test” at Old Trafford, where England bowler Jim Laker took 19 wickets in a single match. You played in that game. What are your memories ? (Your father once took 20 wickets in a game didn’t he?)

The Ashes last summer was terrific for English cricket. How did that series compare with others you’ve seen over the years ?

England travel to Australia for the ashes this winter. What’s the anticipation like for the series, back home ?

England are currently missing Andrew Flintoff and it looks like they will be without Michael Vaughan for the Ashes. How will that affect their chances ?

Hansie CRONJE?

Shane WARNE v Lance GIBBS?

West Indies Cricket? Whose fault is it? The Entertainers Viv RICHARDS, Clive LLOYD Michael HOLDING, Michael MARSHALL.

The BOTHAM test at Headingley do you have any worries about that result and do you think it should stand? Did Australia play to lose that game?

Technology – If Hawkeye is that good should all LBW decisions not be left to it?

FURTHER INFO : “My Spin On Cricket” tells the story of the great game through the ages, through personal anecdotes and a lively, well informed narrative by Richie Benaud, the popular cricket commentator and former Australian cricket captain. Hailed as one of the most influential cricketer and cricket personalities of the last fifty years, he was the runaway winner in “The Wisden” Cricketer’s commentators’ poll of 2005. With the emphasis on the modern game, Richie puts current events under the spotlight and relates them to the past. He discusses all aspects of the game, including gambling, sledging, leadership and technological development in this entertaining and highly informative book.