The first batsman to hit a six in Test cricket, Joe Darling is one of the giant figures of cricket’s Golden Era, best remembered as a record-breaking batsman and outstanding leader of men.

Captain of three Ashes tours to England in 1899, 1902 and 1905 he guided Australian cricket through its coming of age … Larger than life, Joe Darling, by his discipline and democratic approach was admired by cricketers who served under or played against him.

This biography concentrates on Joe’s cricket at all levels – Test, colonial/state, and club – but includes a chapter on his other main sport, Australian Rules football. In addition it discusses his life as a farmer, politician and family man, as well as a member of the pioneering Darling dynasty, several of whose other members are profiled in detail.