FORMER England cricket captain Bob Willis has died at the age of 70.
As a fast bowler, he ended his career, that spanned from 1971 to 1984, with 325 wickets from 90 Test matches.
His best figures were 8 for 43 against Australia in the Ashes in 1981 at Headlingley.
Before retiring in 1984, he had captained England in 18 Tests and 29 one-day internationals.
In a statement, Willis’ family said he had died “after a long illness.”
The family stated, “We are heartbroken to lose our beloved Bob, who was an incredible husband, father, brother and grandfather.
“He made a huge impact on everybody he knew and we will miss him terribly.”
Willis worked as a summariser on BBC TV before joining Sky Sports as a commentator in 1991.
The England and Wales Cricket Board said it was “deeply saddened to say farewell.”
It stated, “We are forever thankful for everything he has done for the game.”
It stated, “Cricket has lost a dear friend.”
