Bob Willis is Dead: Cricket has lost a Friend

 Bob Willis was a force of nature. In the 1970s, he carved out his niche as a tearaway fast bowler, often overshadowed by contemporaries like John Snow, Dennis Lillee, Jeff Thomson, and Andy Roberts. Yet, Willis—unfazed by the lack of limelight—relentlessly charged in, hurling cannonballs at astonishing pace. His courage was unmistakable; he bowled fearlessly at legends like Clive Lloyd, Viv Richards, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Majid Khan, and Zaheer Abbas. Even when Viv or Greg hooked his venomous bouncers, Willis would respond with another, aimed right at the head. The man had unshakable resolve and the heart of a warrior.

They say firecrackers lit up whenever John Snow approached the popping crease, but the same could be said for Bob “Goose” Willis, nicknamed for his loose-limbed, almost languid approach to the crease. When it came to unleashing hostility with the ball, Willis was in the league of Snow, Fred Trueman, and Frank Tyson. His six-foot-six-inch frame, coupled with his flowing auburn curls, created an imposing sight as he charged in. Injuries frequently interrupted his career, but Willis’s mental fortitude ensured he always came back stronger, ready to hunt his prey. In the 1970s, as cricket began to thrive on television, Willis emerged as one of the game’s most captivating figures, earning respect from peers and opponents alike.

Willis cemented his place in cricketing folklore during the fabled Headingley Test of 1981. On that dramatic day, he dismantled Australia for 111, sealing an 18-run victory that remains one of cricket’s greatest comebacks. While Ian Botham’s heroics with the bat gave England a glimmer of hope, it was Willis’s extraordinary spell of 8 for 43 that ensured Botham’s effort would not go in vain. It was a performance that epitomized Willis’s grit and tenacity.

The following year, Willis was appointed England captain, succeeding Keith Fletcher ahead of tours to Sri Lanka and India. He inherited a weakened side, with stars like Graham Gooch and Geoff Boycott absent due to their participation in rebel tours to South Africa. Despite these challenges, Willis led England to victories against India and Pakistan at home and competed valiantly in the 1982-83 Ashes, losing 2-1 in another gripping series. As captain, he also guided England to the semifinals of the 1983 World Cup, only to be eliminated by eventual champions India. His tenure ended on a sombre note with the infamous “Blackwash” by the West Indies in 1984. The third Test of that series, fittingly at Headingley, marked the end of his illustrious career.

By the time Willis retired in 1984, he was England’s leading wicket-taker and second only to Dennis Lillee in the world. His tally of wickets and his indomitable spirit left an enduring legacy in English cricket.

Post-retirement, Willis seamlessly transitioned to the commentary box, where he became one of cricket’s most incisive voices. At the BBC and later Sky Sports, his analysis was sharp, his critiques fearless, and his observations laced with wit and wisdom. Willis’s straightforwardness earned him admiration and respect, even when his opinions ruffled feathers. He remained, above all, a staunch advocate for the integrity of the game.

In 2016, Willis was diagnosed with prostate cancer, a battle he faced with characteristic courage. On December 4, 2019, the cricketing world mourned his passing. His death marked the loss of a proud Englishman, a legendary cricketer, and a true friend of the sport.

Bob Willis was more than just a fast bowler; he was a symbol of resilience and passion. His contributions to cricket, both on and off the field, will forever be remembered. With his departure, the game has lost a cherished guardian of its spirit.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar