The Telegraph has always been sports fans' paper of choice, and its wonderful Letters page a forum for trenchant debate and robust wit. This first collection of the finest letters written to the paper over the years ranges from Bodyline to helmets, swing bowling to sunglasses.

SIR-I don' t see why batsmen today accept being confronted by bowlers wearing gold necklaces and particularly sunglasses. When I played cricket no jewellery was worn. As batsmen, we liked to see the colour of the bowlers' eyes. Would an umpire uphold my complaint today if I refused to face a bowler so adorned?
D.J.W., Evesham

SIR - As one who has seen leadership under pressure at all levels, I would like to add my congratulations to Andrew Strauss. When he took over, English cricket was in crisis; he gave it inspiration and intelligent tactical direction... He had some luck running for him at the Oval but as Napoleon observed: " Give me a lucky general."
Field Marshal L.B., London SW1