This book is dedicated to Dad and Mom whose example,
teaching and love introduced me to the real Author of my story.
Chai tea & Ginger beer
My unexpected journey: Cricket, family & beyond
Much of the book relates to Deborah’s journey with Gary, both as a player and a coach. Never before has the wife of an international cricketer written her story in this way, relating insightful and entertaining stories written from this unique perspective. Deborah sheds a different light on cricket, touring and the pressures of international sport – a side that many people are unfamiliar with.
Deborah also gives the reader a fascinating look into the life and demands on international sportsmen in this professional era, as well as on their families and marriages.
Deborah harnesses the power of story, relating a wonderful selection of anecdotes, from funny ones and happy ones to sad ones and also more poignant ones. She takes the reader on an emotional journey that leaves one crying one minute and laughing the next. Each story is carefully selected to reflect her different experiences, as well as the learning that she and Gary have taken along the way.
Chai tea & Ginger beer is divided into three parts – My Story, His Story & Our Story. Beginning with Deborah’s childhood growing up in a small village during the Apartheid years in South Africa.
Part I She tells of how her family, and most especially her father, well known evangelist and Christian leader, Michael Cassidy, strongly challenged this atrocious regime – this makes for fascinating reading.
Part II moves into meeting Gary’ and his cricket playing years with entertaining stories of touring and travel, as well as some that touch on the great highs and lows in South African cricket during Gary’s playing years, the tragedy of the Hansie Cronje match-fixing scandal included.
Part III reflects her years with Gary coaching, first the Indian team and then the South African team. This section also has reflections on family, marriage and Gary’s decision to retire from coaching the Proteas.
Throughout the book there is an underlying thread which reflects Deborah’s strong faith as well as their values as a couple and how this had a bearing on their lives, their decisions and their stories.Chai tea & Ginger beer is a book that will appeal to young and old, as well as men and women. Deborah’s hope is that through the stories readers will not only enjoy a wonderful journey with her, but that they will also find themselves asking certain questions about their own life and the purpose and meaning of their own stories.
Click on the book to take a peek inside Chai tea & Ginger beer
Read what others have to say about the book!
Danielle and AB de Villiers.
It’s personal, and brilliantly written. We couldn’t stop reading it, and recommend it to everyone. Whether you are a fan of the game or not, “Chai tea & Ginger beer” will most definitely touch your heart.
Jacques Kallis
So many books have been written from the players’ point of view, so it is great to read a book that sees our world from a different perspective … both the good and bad. An enjoyable read that is hard to put down.
Sue and JP Duminy
What a wonderful read and glimpse into our crazy lives! A truly authentic book, written by a remarkable and inspiring woman.
Robin Jackman, International Cricket Commentator
Every mother should read this book. Deborah writes with a passion for her faith and for family values. Emotional, amusing and thoroughly entertaining.
John Smit
A wonderfully well written book giving a closer look into the pursuit of balance in a unique life, that I’m sure will continue to throw more and more surprises Gary and Debbie’s way as time goes on!
Tricia and Shaun Pollock
Debbie gives a beautiful description of life behind the veneer of celebrity and success. It is inspiring to read how her colourful life story is shaped by her solid roots and living faith. She gives an honest and humble depiction of how their family negotiate a balance between pursuing all that life has to offer and being obedient to how they feel called to live out their lives.
Debbie and Bob Skinstad
So well written and such a lovely read! A great insight into a world that not a lot of people get a look into.
Mark Boucher
If there is one person qualified to write a book, on the life of a Protea, from a partner’s perspective, it is most certainly Debs! From girlfriend, to wife, to mother, she certainly has the T-shirt, worn it, and owned it! The stories I have read, not only bring back some great memories and laughs, but are also hugely inspiring. Her faith, patience, support and loyalty depicted in this book is something everyone will learn from. A solid family needs a solid lady… she most certainly has been the foundation for the Kirsten household!
Julia Coovadia
Just read this amazing book! Not only is it SO inspirational on many levels, but it is so beautifully written!! I couldn’t put it down!
Celeste Luck Erasmus
I am getting my reading material reading for our annual family camping trip and guess who is going with me… Chai tea & Ginger beer, cant wait to get stuck in!