Batmaker of Copenhagen
The Batmaker of Copenhagen is the inspiring story of a cricketing hero who defied the German occupation to keep cricket alive throughout the Nazi occupation of Denmark during the Second World War.
With Copenhagen under the iron grip of the Gestapo, and German U-boats preventing any supplies coming in from England, a humble cricket scorer sets out on an improbable and dangerous quest to find willow and produce his own cricket bats.
Scouring the length and breadth of the country, hounded by Gestapo spies, and risking everything for the game he loves, the 'Batmaker' undertakes his mission under the very noses of the city's oppressors.
His nemesis, a Gestapo chief by the name of 'Lucifer', begins a quest of his own to crush the resistance in a battle of wills that shapes the course of the war. Based on a true story, this uplifting tale of passion and patriotism brings cricket and espionage together in a unique and gripping thriller.
Tim Brooks is an experienced and respected cricket writer and commentator specialising in the global game. The acclaimed author of Cricket on the Continent and A Corner of Every Foreign Field, he has contributed regularly to Wisden and was former head of cricket for QTV Sports, commenting on a wide range of ICC events. He has also worked directly with cricket nations to grow and publicise the game, with a focus on northern Europe and Scandinavia. A history graduate, Tim is fascinated by the cultural context of the game and cricket's unique ability to inspire passion and devotion.