Robert Crisp

Robert Crisp was a South African cricketer who played in nine Tests from 1935 to 1936 before living for a while in England. He appeared for Rhodesia, Western Province, Worcestershire and South Africa. He went on to a career in journalism and writing, publishing several accounts of his career in World War II, and earning a reputation as an adventurer.Crisp served during World War II in the 3rd Royal Tank Regiment, later writing two books documenting his experiences: The Gods Were Neutral and Brazen Chariots. These books covered his combat during the early part of the war, first during the British retreat in Greece, then the victory that followed in North Africa. He was decorated for his bravery during the North African campaign, and was also wounded there, nearly dying several times from shrapnel in his skull as well as subsequent infection. Crisp ended the war with a Military Cross, Distinguished Service Order, and four "Mentioned in Dispatches".He went on to a career as a journalist, writing for Wisden and several newspapers. He sailed Greece, climbed mountains, farmed minks in England, and wrote for the East Anglian Daily Times.