South African Cricket Icon Mike Procter Passes Away At 77
Legendary South African cricketer Mike Procter has passed away at the age of 77 following complications after heart surgery. His wife Maryna confirmed the news to the South African press, according to ICC reports. "He suffered a complication during surgery and while in ICU went into cardiac arrest. He became unconscious and unfortunately never woke up," said Maryna.
Short but Stellar International Career
Procter, despite a brief international career truncated by South Africa's sporting isolation in the 1970s and 1980s, is hailed as a Test great. He played seven Test matches, all against Australia, and remarkably took 41 wickets at an impressive average of 15.02. Known for his unique chest-on action and early ball release, Procter played a pivotal role in South Africa's undefeated streak during the seven-Test stretch, winning six matches and drawing one.
Contributions with Both Bat and Ball
Renowned for his prowess with both bat and ball, Procter made crucial runs during South Africa's 4-0 whitewash of Australia in 1969/1970. His exceptional contributions were acknowledged by Wisden, who named him one of their Cricketers of the Year in 1970.
Post-Playing Career and Controversies
Following his playing days, Procter served as South Africa's coach upon their readmission to international cricket. He guided the Proteas to the semifinals of the 1992 Cricket World Cup. Later, Procter assumed the role of ICC match referee from 2002 to 2008.
However, controversy seemed to follow him in this capacity, notably during the 2006 Oval Test when Pakistan forfeited the match and in 2007-08 in Sydney when he banned Harbhajan Singh. He stepped down from the position in 2008 to become South Africa's convenor of selectors.
Procter enjoyed a distinguished first-class cricket career spanning 16 years, notably representing English county Gloucestershire for 14 seasons. During his tenure, which included five seasons as captain, he attained legendary status within the club.
Short but Stellar International Career
Procter, despite a brief international career truncated by South Africa's sporting isolation in the 1970s and 1980s, is hailed as a Test great. He played seven Test matches, all against Australia, and remarkably took 41 wickets at an impressive average of 15.02. Known for his unique chest-on action and early ball release, Procter played a pivotal role in South Africa's undefeated streak during the seven-Test stretch, winning six matches and drawing one.
Contributions with Both Bat and Ball
Renowned for his prowess with both bat and ball, Procter made crucial runs during South Africa's 4-0 whitewash of Australia in 1969/1970. His exceptional contributions were acknowledged by Wisden, who named him one of their Cricketers of the Year in 1970.
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Post-Playing Career and Controversies
Following his playing days, Procter served as South Africa's coach upon their readmission to international cricket. He guided the Proteas to the semifinals of the 1992 Cricket World Cup. Later, Procter assumed the role of ICC match referee from 2002 to 2008.
However, controversy seemed to follow him in this capacity, notably during the 2006 Oval Test when Pakistan forfeited the match and in 2007-08 in Sydney when he banned Harbhajan Singh. He stepped down from the position in 2008 to become South Africa's convenor of selectors.
Procter enjoyed a distinguished first-class cricket career spanning 16 years, notably representing English county Gloucestershire for 14 seasons. During his tenure, which included five seasons as captain, he attained legendary status within the club.
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