Bob Willis

Robert ("Bob") George Dylan Willis (born in Sunderland 30 May 1949) is a former cricketer who played for Surrey, Warwickshire, Northern Transvaal and England.

Related Topics:
Sunderland - 30 May - 1949 - Cricketer - Surrey - Warwickshire - England

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Willis is most fondly remembered for what ended as his best bowling figures of 8 for 43 at Headingley, Leeds, England in 1981 against the Australians. The match is best known as Botham's Test, when England, 7 wickets down following on, came back thanks to 149 not out by Ian Botham. However, England would still have lost that match were it not for a fine spell of aggressive bowling by Willis.

Related Topics:
Headingley - Leeds - England - 1981 - Australians - Ian Botham

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Willis is one of England's greatest-ever fast bowlers, securing 325 test match wickets at an average of 25.20. He was named Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1978.

Related Topics:
Test match - Wisden Cricketer of the Year - 1978

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Willis went on to captain England 18 times, winning 7 times, losing 5 and drawing 6.

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Since retiring from playing cricket, Willis has established himself as a television commentator.

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Willis inserted the middle name "Dylan" by deed poll in honour of his idol Bob Dylan.

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