Tuffers' Ashes Heroes by Phil Tufnell Review (Gifted/AD)

Hello Readers,

Thank you so much to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the early copy of Tuffers' Ashes Heroes. I received a complimentary eBook in exchange for an honest review. Does an kind of autobiography need a spoiler warning? Just in case… spoilers

Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to the cover image featured in this post. It is used under Fair Use for the purposes of review and recommendation, in line with sections 29 and 30 of the Copyright Act.

Title: Tuffers' Ashes Heroes
Author: Phil Tufnell
Genre: Biography, Autobiography, Humour
Pages: 320
Cover Image:

Synopsis: The ultimate Ashes read for cricket lovers from National Treasure Phil Tufnell.
Phil Tufnell played in five Ashes series and has commentated on another ten. With the next tear-up just around the corner, 'Tuffers' has sat down and personally chosen his 50 Ashes 'legends' from the modern era and from both sides of the divide.

Tuffers' Ashes Heroes is crammed with cricketers he has played with or against, admired from afar, enjoyed a drink with or just knows well. Everyone from Ian Botham, Freddie Flintoff, Jimmy Anderson and Stuart Broad to Merv Hughes, Ricky Ponting, Shane Warne and Steve Smith.

Each 'hero' gets a properly funny, entertaining and affectionate pen portrait. 'Heroes', 'legends' and 'characters': all knitted together into the perfect cricket lover's book and written with Tufnell's trademark warmth, self-effacing humour and unmatched storytelling.

Miniature Review

I’m not a cricket fan, but I’ve adored Phil for years from TV and radio, and Tuffers’ Ashes Heroes completely won me over. I requested the book out of pure curiosity to see if Phil’s humour would translate. Phil is known for his charm, humour, and playful cheek, Phil brings all of that personality to this book, making it engaging and fun even for readers like me who know very little about the sport.

Although this book might look a little daunting for non-cricket fans, I didn’t feel the need to understand cricket statistics or history to enjoy it. The focus is on personality, character, and the hilarious, human moments behind the Ashes.

Phil even includes quirky surprises like umpires, fans, and, of course, himself, and each entry is packed with witty anecdotes, affectionate humour, and vivid storytelling. His voice shines throughout: self-deprecating, warm, and playful, as though you’re having a conversation with him. Even for someone like me, who wouldn’t usually pick up a cricket book, it’s impossible not to get drawn into the stories, the humour, and the excitement of the rivalry.

L x

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