Forty Seasons of First-Class Cricket by Richard Gorton Barlow offers a fascinating insight into the world of cricket through the eyes of a seasoned player. Barlow's detailed accounts of his experiences on the pitch, interactions with teammates and opponents, and the evolution of the sport over four decades make for a compelling read.

The author's passion for cricket shines through in his writing, as he eloquently describes the thrill of competition, the camaraderie among players, and the highs and lows of a long and successful career. Barlow's anecdotes are both entertaining and enlightening, providing readers with a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the game.

Overall, Forty Seasons of First-Class Cricket is a must-read for any cricket fan or sports enthusiast. Barlow's wealth of knowledge and personal reflections make this book a valuable addition to any sports library.

Book Description:
R. G. "Dick" Barlow was one of the most accomplished all-round cricketers of the late 19th Century. For many years he opened the batting with A. N. Hornby for Lancashire and England, often acting as a "stonewaller" who "carried his bat through the innings" while his teammates hit out for runs. He also excelled with the ball and delights in telling his readers how he dismissed his contemporary W. G. Grace more often than most. Barlow's 40 years in club, county, and test cricket are recounted with an attention to detail befitting a first class cricketer and umpire. Listeners who prefer their sports autobiographies to be more anecdotal than statistical might do well to start with the three chapters on Barlow's Australian tours with the England cricket team. Francis Thompson's 'At Lords' - a nostalgic tribute to Barlow and Hornby from a Manchester poet - is added as a coda to the book.