'Magical' English cricket great dies, aged 78

Derek Underwood, the England cricket great who is the most prolific spin bowler in the national team’s Test history, has died at the age of 78.

English county team Kent announced the death of Underwood on Monday, without disclosing any specific details. It is believed he had been suffering with dementia.

Underwood took 297 wickets in 86 Test appearances for England with his left-arm spin between 1966-82, while also claiming 32 scalps in ODIs.

He retired from all forms of cricket in 1987, before going on to serve as the president of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) for a short term in 2008.

Derek Underwood with Queen Elizabeth II at Lord’s.

Underwood was a one-county man, representing Kent for 24 years and is regarded as one of the side’s greatest-ever players. .

“Watching Derek weave his unique magic on a wet wicket was a privilege for all who were able to witness it,” Kent chairman Simon Phillip said.

“His induction into the ICC Hall of Fame shows the esteem in which he was held.”

ECB chairman Richard Thompson also paid his respects to the legendary figure.

“Derek Underwood will be remembered as one of the finest spin bowlers this country has ever produced, and his remarkable record is testament to his enduring skill,” he said.