At eight he was writing formal French verse as well as memorising the intricate Russian fairytales which his devoted serf nanny told him.

ECONOMIST: Russian writers

He was determined to keep the best English writing alive and well in India.

ECONOMIST: P. Lal

Bill Walsh had no known writing talents, but I knew he was extremely well-read on football and military history.

FORBES: Bill Walsh, Maverick Football Coach

He was also well known for his theatre work, writing the music for several plays and his own operetta.

BBC: Michael Marra

He was knighted in 1949 and went on to become a cricket administrator and selector in Australia, as well as writing about the game.

BBC: Bradman's last Test cap sold

He was knighted the following year and went on to become a cricket administrator and selector in Australia, as well as writing about the game.

BBC: Bradman cap fetches record sum