February 18, 2024

Legendary South African Cricket All-Rounder Mike Procter Passes Away at 77 – Cricket World Cup

South African Cricket Legend Mike Procter: A Tribute to an Icon

Mike Procter, an illustrious South African cricket legend, passed away on Saturday at the age of 77. He left behind a rich, cricketing legacy that profoundly impacted the sport. Procter’s wife, Maryna, confirmed his death, which resulted from complications during heart surgery.

Despite a relatively brief international career due to South Africa’s sporting isolation in the 1970s and 1980s, Procter’s exceptional skills on the field have earned him a place among cricket’s legends. In seven Test matches, all against Australia, he claimed 41 wickets at an impressive average of 15.02, demonstrating his prowess as a formidable fast bowler and adept swing bowler. Procter’s middle-order batting skills and shrewd captaincy further solidified his reputation as a cricketing force to be reckoned with.

Procter’s contributions to South African cricket were acknowledged by Wisden, who named him one of their Cricketers of the Year in 1970. Following his retirement from playing, he remained active in the sport, serving as a coach, commentator, and selector. Procter later became an ICC match referee between 2002 and 2008, presiding over 47 Tests, 162 ODIs, and 15 T20Is. Though his tenure as referee was marked by several controversies, his profound impact on cricket and South Africa’s sporting landscape remains undeniable.

“It’s sad to hear of Mike’s death,” ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said in his statement. “He was one of the most admired cricketers of his time and one of the most feared opponents. He was a quick bowler and an attacking batter who excelled against all opposition.

“Mike was one of the biggest names in a fine South Africa side that included the likes of Barry Richards and Graeme Pollock. He also officiated as an ICC Match Referee in several important series. The world of cricket will be poorer for his death,” Allardice said.

Ashwin Set to Rejoin Rajkot Test After Brief Absence

Renowned Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is poised to make a comeback in the third Test against England, scheduled in Rajkot.

Following a family medical emergency, Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is set to return to the third Test against England in Rajkot, as confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Sunday. Ashwin’s departure on day two left the Indian squad without one of their key players. Still, the team managed to build a significant lead in his absence.

Compatriot Kuldeep Yadav hinted at Ashwin’s impending return during a conversation with the host broadcaster before day four of the Test match. This news was later confirmed by both the BCCI and Ashwin himself. The hosts have been working diligently to secure a 2-1 series lead and garner 12 World Test Championship points. AshwAshwin’surn will undoubtedly bolster their efforts. It is expected that Ashwin will arrive at the venue during the second session on Sunday, bringing his considerable experience and skill back to the pitch.

Before his temporary departure, Ashwin had achieved a significant milestone in his Test cricket career by claiming his 500th wicket. With the dismissal of EnglEngland’s Crawley on Day two, Ashwin became the ninth bowler in Test history to surpass this impressive landmark, following in the footsteps of the legendary Indian spinner Anil Kumble.

As Ashwin and his family continue to navigate the challenging situation that necessitated his absence from the team, they have requested privacy during this difficult time. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and AshwAshwin’smmates fully support him and his family, recognizing the importance of prioritizing the health and well-being of players and their loved ones. The BCCI has expressed gratitude to fans and media for their understanding and empathy, as they respect the need for privacy while Ashwin focuses on his family.

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