Bob Willis has passed away aged 70 after a short illness.
The fast bowler captained England in 47 internationals, before embarking on a career as a pundit on Sky Sports. As a player, perhaps his finest moment came in the 1981 Ashes series, when his 8-43 at Headingley helped England claim one of Test cricket’s most unlikely comeback victories. He was also named a Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1978. He finished with 325 Test wickets, which sees him sit fourth on England’s list of Test wicket-takers.
As a pundit, he was popular among fans, noted for his uncompromising and firmly expressed viewpoints, particular when appearing on Sky Sports‘ post-play show, The Verdict.
“We are heartbroken to lose our beloved Bob, who was an incredible husband, father, brother and grandfather,” said Willis’ family in a statement to Sky News. “He made a huge impact on everybody he knew and we will miss him terribly.”
The Willis family has asked for donations to be made to Prostate Cancer UK.
