90 Test matches, 325 wickets and a true Ashes hero for England, Bob Willis, passed away on Wednesday, leaving a big void in the cricketing universe. Willis died at the age of 70 after a short period of illness. The news of former England fast bowler and captain’s demise left the cricketing fraternity in shock, as the likes of Sourav Ganguly, Glenn McGrath and others took to Twitter to pay their tributes.
“Such sad news. Bob was an English legend, inspired a generation of fast bowlers around the world & was a good bloke. RIP mate,” tweeted McGrath.
“Waking to the sad news of the passing of the great Bob Willis. Red wine and story time Smithy’s will never be forgotten Bob. Wonderful man to work with and one champion of a bowler. RIP #BobWillis Thoughts with Lauren and the family..,” wrote Simon Doull.
“So sad at the news of bob Willis .. may his soul rest in peace .. love to his entire family @bcci @SkyCricket @nassercricket .. india Will miss a stalwart,” the BCCI president wrote.
“RIP Bob .. Such sad news to wake up to .. A hero of mine .. Great cricketer .. Incredibly entertaining pundit .. More importantly an unbelievable bloke .. !!,” former England captain Michael Vaughan tweeted.
“Saddened at the news of the passing away of #BobWillis. Heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” tweeted ex-Indian cricketer VVS Laxman.