Former England Captain Bob Willis passes away:
Former England Captain and fast bowler Bob Willis died at the age of 70 after a short illness. Bob Willis brought Victory to England in the 1981 Ashes, claiming 8 wickets for 43 runs in the second innings of 3rd Test at Headingley.
At the moment of his retirement, Willis was the leading wicket-taker for England with 325 wickets. He was also the second-highest wicket-taker in the world, right behind Dennis Lillee of Australia. Willis’ record of the leading English wicket-taker was surpassed by Ian Botham, Stuart Broad, and James Anderson.
“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.” Bob Willis’ family said in a statement.
England Fast Bowler Bob Willis’ cricket career:
Willis was nicknamed “Goose” for his 30-yard long run-up. He became England’s answer to the Australian and West Indian pace batteries, which dominated the 70s and 80s for his aggressive bowling.
England great Bob Willis 1949-2019
90 Tests
325 wickets
Ashes hero
May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/EsqgYX8qAL— ICC (@ICC) December 4, 2019
He made his Test debut in 1971 and featured in 90 Test matches, claiming 325 wickets at an average of 25.20. Bob Willis played his first ODI in 1973 and played a total of 64 ODI matches, claiming 80 wickets at an average of 24.60. Willis also played 308 first-class matches and took 899 wickets throughout his career.
He led England as the captain in 1982 in an ODI series against India. He was replaced by David Gower in 1984 as the captain. He announced his retirement from all cricket in 1984.
Willis also took part in commentary, and also formed a partnership with his former teammate Ian Botham. Willis did not get much success and was sidelined from the first choice commentary panel in 2006, but he still remained active in the circuit.
