Derek Underwood, England's highest wicket-taking spin bowler, passes away aged 78

Derek Underwood claimed 297 wickets in 86 test matches he played for England.

England’s legendary spinner and Kent player Derek Underwood, often known as ‘Deadly’, by his teammates for his exceptional skills on the field, passed away at the age of 78 on April 15, 2024. During his glorious test career for England, Derek claimed 297 wickets in 86 matches.

Underwood played his entire First-Class (FC) career for the Kent County team. He made his debut for Kent at the age of 17, and then he went on to play from 1963 to 1987

The legendary player has been the leading wicket-taker among England spin bowlers until now in tests. Behind him is Graeme Swann with 255 scalps. In ODI cricket, Underwood made appearances in 26 games, where he bagged 32 wickets.

The great cricketer was ranked as the No. 1 test bowler from September 1969 to August 1973. His international career spanned from the mid-1960s to the early 1980s. Underwood was one of the sharpest spinners of his era, and his skills to exploit a damp surface made him one of the legendary English spinners.

After the death of Derek, Kent Cricket chair Simon Philip said that the club “is mourning following the passing of one of its greatest ever players”.

“Derek was an outstanding contributor to both Kent and England, winning trophies for club and country and etching his name in the history books forevermore. Watching Derek weave his unique magic on a wet wicket was a privilege for all who were able to witness it. His induction into the ICC Hall of Fame shows the esteem in which he was held in world cricket,” Simon Philip added.

Phillip further added that Derek made many contributions off the field and he will be missed by everyone at Kent Cricket. “An advocate for growing our game worldwide whilst protecting our sport’s rich heritage, Derek also made substantial contributions off the field as well as on it, and he will be sorely missed by everyone at Kent Cricket.”

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