Tall Tales from Agnew & Tufnell
If you’ve ever tuned in to the gentle hum of BBC Radio’s Test Match Special, you’ll know it’s more than just cricket commentary—it’s a soundtrack to the English summer. In Test Match Special: Tall Tales – The Good, The Bad and The Hilarious from the Commentary Box, co-authors Jonathan Agnew and Phil Tufnell take readers behind the microphone and into a world of camaraderie, chaos and cricketing charm.
This Test Match Special book review explores why this title is such a delight for cricket fans, podcast listeners, and lovers of sporting memoirs.
A Story-Soaked Salute to a Broadcasting Institution
The book delivers exactly what it promises: tall tales from the rich history of Test Match Special. With contributions from other TMS voices like Isa Guha, Alison Mitchell and Aatif Nawaz, this is less a memoir and more a team scrapbook. Each chapter offers behind-the-scenes stories, from schoolboy cricket mischief and county capers to on-air mishaps and unforgettable moments from the commentary box.
The unmistakable tone of TMS—relaxed, jovial, and occasionally delightfully off-topic—is present throughout. You can almost hear the laughter between overs.
Standout Stories and Signature Moments
The book is packed with laugh-out-loud anecdotes and endearing gaffes. Highlights include:
- Schoolboy shenanigans: Tufnell’s school cricket exploits and Agnew’s early run-ins with teachers offer a charming origin story to their eventual commentary careers.
- County cricket chaos: Whether it’s Tuffers winding up teammates or Aggers recalling the eccentricities of the 1980s Leicestershire squad, these tales have the feel of late-night dressing room banter.
- The “leg over” incident: Naturally, the infamous 1991 commentary moment involving Agnew and Brian Johnston gets its due—a reminder of how TMS moments can become national treasures.
- Modern additions: Contributions from Rainford-Brent, Guha and others offer a fresh perspective on how TMS has evolved, while maintaining its uniquely British blend of wit and wisdom.
Readability and Rhythm
This isn’t a cricket book weighed down by stats and scorecards. It’s light, narrative-driven, and conversational. The humour is broad and accessible, with enough heart to keep even the most casual fan engaged.
For seasoned listeners, there’s a wonderful sense of nostalgia. For newcomers, the book offers a quirky, endearing introduction to the Test Match Special universe.
Where the Book Hits (and Occasionally Misses)
What Works:
- Authentic voice: It captures the tone and spirit of TMS effortlessly.
- Wider team feel: Multiple contributors make it feel inclusive and communal.
- Breezy format: Short chapters, punchy anecdotes, and a natural flow make it ideal for dipping in and out.
Minor Downsides:
- Occasional repetition: A few jokes and themes (beards, pranks) pop up more than once.
- No photo section: Given the vivid personalities, a photo insert would have brought the stories even more to life.
Who Should Read It?
This book is perfect for:
- TMS loyalists who want more than just highlights.
- Cricketers who’ve lived the dressing room culture.
- Anyone who loves a good sporting yarn—whether or not they know their cover drive from their doosra.
Where to Buy
Test Match Special: Tall Tales is published by BBC Books (an imprint of Ebury Publishing). It’s available in hardback, paperback, ebook and audiobook formats via:
RRP around £14.99.
Final Thoughts – Tall Tales, Big Smiles
This Test Match Special book review can confidently say that Aggers and Tuffers have served up a classic—a tribute not just to the game, but to the joyful chaos that happens behind the scenes. It’s a reminder that cricket is about more than stats; it’s about people, stories, and shared moments that span generations.
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