The influences of corporate sponsorship, publicity-conscious politicians and the jingoistic media pervaded the tournament. There were additional strains caused by hostilities between India and Pakistan on the Kashmir frontier and a bomb planted by the Tamil Tigers in Colombo. The author covers these matters in detail. He explores the subject of racism and contrasts the attempts by the South African team to ingratiate themselves with fans, with the refusal by Australia to play in Colombo and the siege mentality of the hapless English. He stresses that the majority of fans were well-behaved and appreciative of good play by anyone. The 'riot' after India's defeat in the semi-final was quite mild compared to the usual goings-on at West Ham and prompted largely by the 'win at all costs' attitude of the media.

The book contains vivid descriptions of several matches, particularly the tense and eagerly-awaited encounter between India and Pakistan. I enjoyed especially the author's account of Kenya's humbling of the once invincible West Indies.

War Minus The Shooting offers a number of fascinating anecdotes about the history of cricket in South Asia. I was staggered to learn that for the first half of this century, teams representing the different ethnic groups in India met in an annual tournament in front of large crowds. Only partition brought it to an end. The book is not without blemishes. It lacks photographs and I hereby volunteer for the job of photographer when Mike next covers a World Cup or overseas tour. More serious is the author's occasional failure to explain who individuals are and his use of words such as "kvetching" (just after he resorts to a dictionary when described as a "wowser").

However, these are minor imperfections. This book is an effervescent celebration of the noble game and I recommend it wholeheartedly to fans, the curious and anyone interested in a portrait of South Asia.