Peter Oborne’s acclaimed biography of Basil D’Oliveira tells the remarkable story of a black South African cricketer who overcame racial barriers to play for England. Born under apartheid, D’Oliveira defied the odds to fulfil his sporting potential, challenging prejudice in both South Africa and England.
The book reaches its dramatic climax in the infamous D’Oliveira Affair of 1968, when South African Prime Minister John Vorster banned England’s MCC cricket team from touring due to D’Oliveira’s inclusion. This momentous event triggered South Africa’s two-decade sporting isolation, playing a key role in the eventual collapse of apartheid.
A powerful blend of sports and politics, Basil D’Oliveira is an inspiring story of resilience, talent, and the fight against racial injustice.
