The most successful spin bowler in England’s history of Test cricket, Derek Underwood, passed away on Monday at the age of 78, according to a statement from his former county, Kent.
With his trademark fast left-arm spin, Underwood claimed 297 wickets in 86 Test matches. He was especially useful on uncovered surfaces, which were in use for the majority of his 24-year first-class career, which spanned from 1963 to 1987.
On a surface like this, in 1968, he bowled England to a memorable victory against arch-rivals Australia at The Oval, taking 7-50 when a draw had looked certain.
Underwood played his final Test match in 1982 after making his debut for England in 1966 at the age of 21.
