Ray Illingworth: Former England captain dies aged 89
Ray Illingworth, who led England to a Test series victory over Australia down under in 1970-71, had been undergoing radiotherapy for esophageal cancer; he captained England 31 times, winning 12 of those matches
Sunday 26 December 2021 07:18, UK
Former England captain Ray Illingworth has died at the age of 89, Yorkshire have announced.
Illingworth, who led England to a Test series victory over Australia down under in 1970-71, had been undergoing radiotherapy for esophageal cancer.
He played 61 Tests for England between 1958 and 1973, scoring 1,836 Test runs at an average of 23.24 and claimed 122 wickets at 31.20.
Illingworth captained England 31 times, winning 12 of those matches.
His former county Yorkshire released a statement on Saturday, which read: "We are deeply saddened to learn that Ray Illingworth has passed away.
"Our thoughts are with Ray's family and the wider Yorkshire family who held Ray so dear to their hearts."
Illingworth was the chairman of selectors for England between 1993 and 1996, and coached them in 1995-96.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said it was deeply saddened to learn of Illingworth's passing.
ECB chief executive officer Tom Harrison added: "It's always incredibly sad to lose a person who has given so much to the English game, and to the sport of cricket in general.
"Ray was a superb cricketer, and his deep love, passion and knowledge for the game meant he continued to contribute long after his playing days had finished. We send our sympathy and warmest wishes to Ray's friends and family at this difficult time."
