Cricket lost “a dear friend” on Wednesday following the death of former England captain Bob Willis.
The pace bowler, who played 90 Tests for England and became a popular figure in broadcasting following his retirement in 1984, was 70.
It is understood Willis, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer three years ago, had begun to deteriorate in health over the last two months, with a recent scan revealing the cancer had advanced.
The England and Wales Cricket Board said in a statement: “The ECB is deeply saddened to say farewell to Bob Willis, a legend of English cricket, at the age of 70.
“Bob spearheaded the England bowling attack for more than a decade and took 325 Test wickets.
“He will always be remembered for his outstanding cricket career, in particular his eight for 43 in the dramatic Headingley Test victory over Australia in 1981.
“In later years as a broadcaster Bob was a perceptive and respected voice at the microphone. We are forever thankful for everything he has done for the game.
“Everyone at the ECB sends sincere condolences to his family. Cricket has lost a dear friend.”
Willis remains England’s fourth highest wicket-taker of all time and his most famous moment as a player came in that remarkable third Ashes Test at Headingley.
Ian Botham’s innings of 149 had helped set Australia a target of just 130 to win when Willis produced the performance of his life to secure an improbable 18-run victory.
