Former England captain and famous broadcaster Bob Willis dies aged 70

Former England skipper and famous sports broadcaster Bob Willis has passed away at 70 after battling cancer. He represented England for almost a decade and featured in 90 Tests and 64 ODIs after making his debut way back in 1971.

He took 325 wickets - fourth-highest by any pacer from England - and joined the great fast bowlers' list that includes the likes of James Anderon and Ian Botham. He also dismissed 899 batsmen in first-class wickets where he enjoyed tremendous success. 

Perhaps, he is remembered by the current generation for his lucid and no-holds-barred analysis and jovial style of commentary. Fans and everyone associated with Bob are paying tribute to the popular voice of cricket and they are sharing their condolences on social media.

His magnum opus was the match-winning performance against England's arch-rivals Australia in 1981 during Ashes series where he returned figures of 8/43 in the third Test at Headingley and lifted his side out of a precarious situation. 

With a long languid run-up, long hair, and wonderful action, he had the typical fast bowler's persona as he inflicted carnage on many opponents and went on to inspire several generations of fast bowlers.

Willis' family said in a statement: “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."