England cricket legend Sir Geoffrey Boycott has shocked fans and the sporting community after revealing that he has been diagnosed with throat cancer for the second time.

The former Yorkshire and England batsman is expected to undergo surgery later this month in an attempt to beat the disease he was initially diagnosed with in 2002.

Boycott announced his diagnosis in a statement to the Daily Telegraph, revealing that he is hoping for the best as he prepares for surgery and treatment.

“In the last few weeks I have had an MRI scan, CT scan, a PET scan and two biopsies and it has now been confirmed I have throat cancer and will require an operation,” Boycott said.

“From past experience I realise that to overcome cancer a second time I will need excellent medical treatment and quite a bit of luck and, even if the operation is successful, every cancer patient knows they have to live with the possibility of it returning.

“So I will just get on with it and hope for the best.”

As news of his diagnosis broke, the cricket community rushed to offer their “best wishes” to the “iconic former England batter”, offering their support while acknowledging his significant contributions to the sport and wishing him a speedy recovery.

Throughout his remarkable career from 1962 to 1986, Boycott emerged as one of England’s premier opening batsmen. He played a crucial role in the English team that finished as runners-up in the 1979 Cricket World Cup.

Boycott made his international debut in a Test match against Australia in 1964. Renowned for his tenacity at the crease, he was a stalwart in England’s Test batting lineup for many years.

Following his playing days, Boycott transitioned to a career as a cricket commentator on radio and television.

-with PA.