Former England cricket captain Bob Willis passed away following a short illness, it was confirmed on Thursday (AEST).
News of the 70-year-old’s death was revealed just hours ago as a statement from the Ashes legend’s family was read out live on air by Sky Sports newsreader Vicky Gomersall. The British presenter broke down in tears as she read out the emotional message and co-host Jim White had to jump in to complete the reading.
“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,” the statement read.
According to Sky News, the Sunderland-born sportsman died following a battle with prostate cancer, with his family requesting that donations be made to Prostate Cancer UK. He is survived by his wife Lauren, daughter Katie, brother David and sister Ann.
Since the sad news was revealed, tributes have poured in for the legendary fast bowler with the England and Wales Cricket Board saying the sport of cricket had “lost a true friend”.
“The ECB is deeply saddened to say farewell to Bob Willis, a legend of English cricket, at the age of 70,” the ECB said in a statement. “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 8-43 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.”
We're very sad to hear of the passing of MCC Honorary Life Member, Bob Willis.
A Lord's legend & former England captain whose name is on the Honours Boards three times.
Our thoughts are with his friends and family. pic.twitter.com/KgyQbHdYqq
— Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) December 4, 2019
UK broadcaster Piers Morgan wrote: “RIP Bob Willis, 70. One of England’s greatest ever cricketers, a fabulously acerbic commentator, and wonderfully entertaining, intelligent, uncompromising & amusing company. Enjoyed many fun times with him. A true British sporting legend & rare spirit.”
Current England spearhead James Anderson said: “Incredibly sad to hear the news about Bob Willis. He was a true great, generous in sharing his knowledge about the game and a lovely man. RIP Bob.”
Incredibly sad to hear the news about Bob Willis. He was a true great, generous in sharing his knowledge about the game and a lovely man. RIP Bob x pic.twitter.com/HYJbLlQJRZ
— James Anderson (@jimmy9) December 4, 2019
While Stuart Broad said: “Gutted to hear the news of Bob Willis passing. A lovely person with a great humour who was so proud of England cricket. Legend.”
The 6’6″ fast bowler made his international debut in the 1981 Ashes and went on to play in 90 tests and 64 one-day internationals throughout his illustrious career. Having ended his career with 325 test wickets, he still sits in fourth place in the list of all-time England wicket-takers behind James Anderson, Ian Botham and Stuart Broad.
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