Former England cricketer Bob Willis, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer three years ago, has died at the age of 70, his family announced on Wednesday.
“We are heartbroken to lose our beloved Bob, who was an incredible husband, father, brother and grandfather,” said a statement from the Willis family.
Willis famously bowled England to a dramatic win against Australia in 1981 at Headingley, following a career-best of eight for 43 in the third Ashes Test. He captained England between 1982 and 1984, and played 90 Tests, taking 325 wickets.
The England and Wales Cricket Board said it was deeply saddened by Willis's death, and said that cricket has lost a dear friend. “He made a huge impact on everybody he knew and we will miss him terribly.”
“He will always be remembered for his outstanding cricket career.... In later years as a broadcaster Bob was a perceptive and respected voice at the microphone,” the ECB said in a statement.
Reports said that Willis's health had deteriorated in the past couple of months, and that a scan revealed that the cancer had advanced.
Willis, who made his international debut aged 21 in the 1971 Ashes in Australia, is fourth on the all-time list of England Test wicket-takers behind James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Ian Botham.
(With inputs from agencies)
