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Former England and Yorkshire cricketer Geoffrey Boycott has been diagnosed with cancer. The 61-year-old Yorkshireman announced he had pulled out of a commentating job for England's fourth Test against India on Thursday after tests on a lump in his neck showed the "existence of cancerous tissue". He said in a statement: "Tests were made on a lump which was removed from my neck in hospital last Friday. "Further tests will now be taken to determine the extent and possible treatment.

"I am sad to be missing the Oval Test and I wished to explain my sudden withdrawal from commentating." Boycott refused to discuss his rumoured illness when questioned about it recently, referring to it as "private". He was approached during the third Test at Headingley but said at the time: "I don't see why I have to discuss anything about my personal life.

"That's private and I want it to remain that way."

It is not known how long it will be before the additional tests on the tissue are completed, a spokeswoman for Boycott said. One of England's greatest opening batsmen, Boycott's dogged determination at the crease won him the respect of millions of fans.

When his cricketing career ended, he became a high-profile radio and television broadcaster. Fellow former Yorkshire captains Brian Close and Ray Illingworth offered words of encouragement to Boycott. Along with Fred Trueman, the three opened the new East Stand at Headingley recently. Close said: "There are cures and all the rest. Let us hope it has been caught in good time."

Illingworth added: "I am sorry to hear that. He never really went on about it at all (at Headingley). He seemed in good spirits.

"It was later on that I heard he might have cancer but knowing Geoff he is a very private person and he would want to keep it private." (BBC)

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