Darrell is enthralled by cricket but neglects his studies, until he is made a prefect by the Head Master with a warning that he must improve academically or lose his coveted role as cricket captain. Darrell rises to the challenge, working diligently while still excelling as a sportsman and leader. However, his progress is threatened when money goes missing and signs point to Darrell as the thief. He proclaims his innocence, but evidence mounts against him. Darrell must uncover the real thief to clear his name and retain his hard-earned positions of authority. Through Darrell’s tribulations, the novel explores issues of balance, obedience, justice, and the complexities of growing up. Ultimately, Darrell must prove he can be an upright student and athlete worthy of the impossible dual role of prefect and cricket captain.