Just heard of the sad death of the great Bob Willis, still remember his 8 for 43 at Headingley when we won a test against the Australians we always looked like losing, rest in peace Bob
So sad. He always spoke his mind on The Cricket Debate and he was expected back on there shortly, so this has come as a shock.
Truly awful and sad news. After our promotion in 1981, as a six year old, the Ashes series of that year is the other "first" memory of sport I have, and much of it down to Bob Willis as well as Botham. The memories of great sporting achievements are priceless and should be treasured, and he played a huge part in one of the greatest and most inspirational ones ever witnessed. RIP Bob.
Sad news. Bob was an exceptional bowler, one of the best ever produced by this country. Later in life, he was a top class, knowledgeable pundit, who wasn't afraid to slam a few home truths to present day cricketers and their sycophants. R.I.P. Bob, a true cricketing legend.
That iconic 30 yard run up had me mesmerised in my youth. I couldn't wait til 10.45 when it came on the BBC just to watch Bob. 1981 got me hooked on cricket. R.I.P legend.
RIP. A great bowler and a good commentator (although a massive hypocrite when criticising anyone for poor fielding - Bob made Tuffers look agile). Hopefully Sky will have a decent tribute lined up, he deserves it.
True legend of the game. His bowling spell at Headingley was one of the reasons I fell in love with cricket. RIP
Sad news. Don't think he was given the credit he was due. During what was called Bothams ashes. Although Botham spoke highly. RIP
Loved watching him play and as a pundit. Unplayable in his pomp and a proper old fashioned number 11 batsman! Full of curmudgeonly character, understated wit and unswerving honesty - a massive Dylan fan too. RIP and thanks for so many fantastic memories.
Really sad. I hadn’t realised he was 70 Still remember his performance at Headingly in 81 as if it was yesterday. My all time favourite bowling performance RIP Bob
I was down Highgate pit on afters, remember it well, kept getting updates on tannoy system from control room, marvellous.
I was there that day and the day before when Botham took the Aussie bowling apart, incredible game. There was a bloke sat in front of us with a table full of glasses and the biggest bottle of champagne I’ve ever seen, just waiting for the last wicket to fall. I’m guessing he had a bob or two on England at 500 to 1....
I was there for the Botham and Dilley show but not for the Willis demolition of the Aussie batting 2 regrets - first was I nearly stuck a quid on and England win at 500-1 for a laugh but didn't in the end. I wish I had Second was nearly went back for the last day but decided it was too much hassle as I still couldn't see it lasting much beyond lunch and an Aussie win and its a bit of a trek from Wombwel,l especially when I was only a poor student. Willis never got 10 wickets in a test match - though he got 8 in the second innings in this one he didn't get any in the first - I am always amazed he never did that one.