Bedsers

This biography charts the lives of sporting twins Alec and Eric Bedser, from their humble origins as country boys in Woking to their reign as key members of the Surrey cricket team that won seven championships in the 1950s.Alec Bedser was to become England's bowling standard bearer in the years following World War II - his exceptional strength and prowess yielding almost 2000 wickets, including 236 in 51 Tests. He was at the peak of his power in the 1953 series against Australia, when his aggregate of 39 wickets was the best return by an English bowler since 1934 - a feat only surpassed against Australia by Wilfred Rhodes, Hedley Verity and Jim Laker. Sir Alec is nowhere more venerated than in Australia where he and his brother enjoy deep respect and affection, despite Alec having dismissed the great Don Bradman on eight occasions.Although Alec achieved the greater renown, he insists he was privileged to have a devoted brother by his side.Once retired, Bedser maintained his connection with cricket fulfilling administrative duties, including a record term as chairman of the Test selectors. Knighted in 1997 for his services to cricket, he is the only English bowler to receive the honour.