London : Legendary England cricketer Ted Dexter passed away on Thursday in Wolverhampton after a recent illness. He was 86.
Regarded as one of England’s all-time greats, Dexter was a ferocious middle-order batsman and a handy medium pace bowler.
He played 62 Test matches for England between 1958 and 1968, scoring 4502 runs at an average of 47.89, with nine centuries and 27 half-centuries. He also picked up 66 wickets at 34.93 apiece, with career-best innings figures of 4/10.
Dexter was also lauded for his skills as a leader, having captained England in 30 Test matches.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) offered condolences following the demise of former England captain.
In a statement, ICC’s Acting Chief Executive Geoff Allardice remembered the ICC Hall of Famer as a top batter of his era who continued to serve the game after retirement from international cricket.
‘Ted Dexter was one of the most accomplished batsmen of his era. His ability to dominate fast bowling was admirable and his superb batting against the West Indies and Australia teams is remembered by all,’ said Allardice.
‘He also made notable contributions to the game in various capacities post-retirement and helped develop the players’ rankings that are so popular today.
Ted was honoured to be one of this year’s special inductees to the ICC Hall of Fame and it is really sad to hear the news of his passing. On behalf of the ICC, I would like to extend my condolences to his family and friends,’ he added.
Dexter was also known for his ability to dominate top class fast bowling. His prowess against fast bowling was probably best illustrated during his innings of 70 off 75 balls against the West Indies at Lord’s in 1963 against a bowling attack that included feared fast bowlers, Charlie Griffith and Wes Hall.
Ted worked as a journalist and broadcaster post-retirement and served as England’s Chairman of Selectors. He was also instrumental in devising a players’ ranking system that was later adopted by the ICC and is currently known as the ICC Player Rankings.
