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Robert George Dylan "Bob" Willis MBE (born 30 May 1949 in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear) was a prominent English international cricketer and later a well known broadcaster. Renowned for his height, pace and aggressive bowling style, Willis made his mark as a leading right‑arm fast bowler for England and several county sides during the 1970s and 1980s. His international career and public profile made him one of the best‑known English pace bowlers of his generation. English cricketer

Career and teams

Willis spent his professional career with a mix of county and provincial teams and the national side. He represented county sides such as Surrey and Warwickshire, and also played a season in South Africa for Northern Transvaal. He was selected regularly for England and featured in Test and one‑day international cricket across more than a decade, often leading the attack with pace and hostility.

As a bowler Willis combined height, a long run‑up and an ability to generate awkward bounce and late movement. He was capable of sustained spells of high energy and could intimidate batsmen with short‑pitched deliveries as well as extract swing when conditions helped. One of his most celebrated performances came in the 1981 Ashes Test at Headingley, where a match‑turning burst secured a famous victory for England and entered cricketing lore.

Honours and later life

During his playing days Willis was recognised by peers and critics: he was named a Wisden Cricketer of the Year and later received an MBE for services to the sport. After retiring from playing, he transitioned into media work — becoming a respected voice on both radio and television, offering analysis, commentary and occasional written pieces on the modern game.

Willis's contribution extended beyond raw figures: he helped popularise fast bowling for a generation of English fans and served as a candid, sometimes outspoken figure in cricket broadcasting. His clear, authoritative commentary style made him a familiar presence at major matches and in post‑match analysis.

Bob Willis died on 4 December 2019 at the age of 70. He is remembered for his fierce competitiveness, a handful of iconic performances and a second career that kept him closely identified with cricket long after he stopped playing.