Bob Willis: Former England cricket captain dies, aged 70

The fast bowler played in 90 Test matches

Bob Willis pictured in 1974. PA via AP

Warwickshire's captain Bob Willis appeals for lbw for the wicket of Lancashire's Alan Orarod in 1984. PA

Bob Willis in 2017. PA

Bob Willis is seen in the Royal Box on Centre Court on day six of the 2012 Wimbledon Championships. AFP

West Indies captain Brian Lara tosses the coin as England captain Michael Vaughan, Bob Willis and an officials look on in Antigua in 2004. Action Images

Bob Willis, watched by umpire Bill Alley, in 1983. PA

England cricketer Bob Willis after receiving an award at Buckingham Palace. PA

Former England cricket captain Bob Willis has died aged 70 after a short illness, Sky Sports television reported.

The fast-bowler played in 90 Tests and 64 one-day internationals for England over more than a decade after his debut in 1971, retiring in 1984.

Willis, well remembered for his heroics in what became known as "Botham's Ashes" in 1981, worked for Sky Sports as a cricket expert for many years.

Botham would later describe his team-mate as a "tremendous trier, a great team man and an inspiration -- the only world-class fast bowler in my time as an England player."

Willis finished his Test career with 325 wickets, which puts him fourth on the all-time list of England wicket-takers behind James Anderson, Botham and Stuart Broad.

"We are heartbroken to lose our beloved Bob, who was an incredible husband, father, brother and grandfather," read the Willis family statement.

"He made a huge impact on everybody he knew and we will miss him terribly."

The former international cricketer is survived by his wife Lauren, daughter Katie, brother David and sister Ann.