Derek Underwood, the most prolific spin bowler in England’s Test history, has died at the age of 78, his former county Kent have announced.
Underwood, affectionately known as “Deadly”, claimed 297 scalps in 86 Test appearances for his country with his brisk left-arm spin, as well as another 32 in one-day internationals.
Known as a master of uncovered pitches, he first played for his country as a 21-year-old in 1966 and made his final appearance in 1982.
His record tally would have been even higher had it not been for his decision to play in Kerry Packer’s World Series Cricket and the first rebel tour of South Africa, but he still sits 42 wickets ahead of his nearest rival among spinners, Graeme Swann.
A statement from Kent read: “Kent Cricket is in mourning following the death of one of the icons of the Club, Derek Underwood, at the age of 78. The thoughts of everyone at Kent Cricket are with Derek’s friends and family at this sad time.”