Batswana snap up controversial cricketer's book

MQONDISI DUBE
Staff Writer | Wednesday December 1, 2010 00:00

His recently released autobiography, 'To the Point' has become the fastest seller in South Africa and Botswana readers have not been left behind. 

Inquiries at Exclusive Books and CNA revealed that the controversial book is a much sought after read.

Sales persons at both bookstores said the book flew off the shelves the moment it arrived and they were waiting for fresh deliveries yesterday.

Exclusive Books had initially ordered 15 books, which were snapped up within days with an additional 15 expected to arrive anytime this week.

At CNA, the five copies allocated to the bookstore were quickly bought and new deliveries are expected this week. The book contains shocking revelations about sex and booze during Gibbs' days as a South African national team player.

Excerpts of the book published in the South African media indicate that the former Proteas batsman was engaged in heavy drinking and womanising during his time with the national team. In the autobiography, Gibbs admits to incredibly heavy drinking before and after crucial games.

He talks of how he smoked dagga with his team-mates during a tour of the West Indies and how he often arrived for matches suffering from a hangover.

He discusses the influence of a powerful clique in the Proteas' team led by captain Graeme Smith, batsmen; Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers and wicket keeper, Mark Boucher. The book has excited Botswana readers and might open an opportunity for local sports persons to pen their autobiographies. Particularly interesting could be revered Zebras' midfielder, Diphetogo 'Dipsy' Selolwane's autobiography if he decides to write one.

Selolwane has shown that he does not shy away from discussing controversial subjects after openly taking a dig at Zebras' team-mate, Mogogi Gabonamong in an article which appeared in a South Africa soccer publication recently. He spoke after Gabonamong snubbed national team duty demanding appearance and insurance fees.

While critics have argued that the reading culture still has to be cultivated in Botswana, locals have proved that they have appetite for autobiography of sportspeople, particularly where contentious issues are discussed. 

Probably there are numerous behind-the-scenes happenings, past and present, within the Zebras' camp, which can be captured in an autobiography.