2024-04-17 23:07:49
(Web Desk) Derek Underwood, the greatest spin bowler in England’s Test history, has died at the age of 78.
Underwood, who took 297 wickets in 86 Tests between 1966 and 1982, played his entire first-class career at Kent, for whom he made his first-team debut aged 17, and 900 over three decades. Played more matches than From 1963 to 1987, took 2,523 wickets at an average of just 19.04.
He proved most lethal on rain-affected wickets, most famously in the final Ashes Test of 1968 at The Oval, when Underwood was bowled after a frantic effort by the crowd to make the outfield playable. Four wickets off 27 balls to give and level the series.
Underwood is the sixth-highest wicket-taker in England history, and the leading spin bowler ahead of Graeme Swann (255). In ODI cricket, he played 26 matches between 1973 and 1982, including a pair in the opening match of the 1975 World Cup, in which he took 32 wickets at an average of 22.93.
According to the former ICC Men’s Test Bowler Rankings, Underwood was ranked as the world’s No. 1 bowler from September 1969 to August 1973.
Underwood’s adaptability was reflected in his record in both India and Australia, where he was able to reduce his pace to maximize his impact. He would have eclipsed Fred Truman’s then England record of 307 wickets had he not made two key choices later in his career – first he accepted Kerry Packer’s invitation to join World Series Cricket in 1977; , and again in 1981-82. , he was included in the first rebel tour of South Africa, a decision that led to a three-year international ban and effectively ended his career.
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Underwood retired from the game in 1987, having won three County Championships, two ODI Cups, three National League and three Benson & Hedges Cups as a Kent cricketer.
In 2008, Underwood was named president of the Marylebone Cricket Club, after serving as club president of Kent Cricket in 2006, and in 2009 he was inducted into the ICC’s Cricket Hall of Fame.
Kent Cricket Chair, Simon Philip said: The Kent Cricket family is saddened by the passing of one of its greatest players. Watching Derrick weave his unique magic on a wet wicket is a privilege for all who were able to witness it. His induction into the ICC Hall of Fame reflects the esteem in which he is held in world cricket. He will be missed by everyone at Kent Cricket.
2024-04-17 23:07:49