Ashes hero Dilley dies

Former Ashes hero Graham Dilley has died aged 52 after a short illness, the England and Wales Cricket Board revealed on Wednesday.

Fast bowler Dilley played a key role in one of the most dramatic Tests in Ashes history as his 117-run eighth wicket partnership with Ian Botham helped England recover from a seemingly hopeless position to beat Australia by 18 runs at Headingley in 1981.

Kent and Worcestershire star Dilley played in 41 Tests, took 138 wickets and won the Ashes twice with England in 1981 and 1986-87.

After retiring, he moved into coaching and enjoyed spells as an assistant with England and bowling coach to the England Women’s team before taking up a position as head cricket coach at Loughborough University.

ECB chief executive David Collier said: “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. London, Wednesday (AFP)