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Graham Dilley - RIP

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/15185575.stm


Former England bowler Graham Dilley dies after illness

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Dilley took 138 Test wickets for England

Former England bowler Graham Dilley has died aged 52 after a short illness.

The former Kent and Worcestershire paceman played 41 Test matches and 36 one-day internationals.

His best moment came in 1981, when he helped England complete a memorable win in the third Ashes Test.

"Few will forget his contribution during the historic Ashes win at Headingley in 1981," said David Collier, chief executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board.

"Graham made a life-long contribution to the game of cricket at all levels and we are deeply saddened by the sad news this morning."

Dilley took 138 Test wickets at an average of 29.78 for his country but his biggest impact came with the bat in that famous battle with Australia in Leeds 30 years ago.

His 117-run partnership with Ian Botham helped England to victory after the home side had looked almost certain to lose.

After retiring, Dilley, a two-time Ashes series winner in 1981 and 1986-87, moved into coaching. He enjoyed spells as England assistant coach and England women's bowling coach before becoming head cricket coach at Loughborough University.

Botham told Sky Sports News: "I had a lot of great times with him. He had a good sense of humour and always wanted to be a part of the party.

"He was quiet and reserved until you got to know him. It's a very sad day.

"We both joined Worcestershire at the same time together, almost within minutes. We had a great run of about six trophies in five years."
 
Genuinely sad to hear of his death. I remember him in his pomp. Striking looking bloke and a good cricketer. RIP.
 
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