ECB Expresses Sorrow Over Passing of Ex-England Bowler Peter Lever

London, March 27 (NationPress) The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) expressed its sorrow on Thursday regarding the passing of former fast bowler Peter Lever, who departed at the age of 84. Lever, who participated in seventeen Tests and ten ODIs for England from 1970 to 1975, was also a proficient batsman and a notable figure in England's domestic cricket.

"Our condolences are with Peter’s family and friends," stated the ECB. "Lever, a right-arm fast-medium bowler, was recognized for his determination and skill on the pitch. His achievements left a lasting legacy on both English and international cricket," the statement continued.

Throughout his domestic career, he participated in 301 first-class matches for Lancashire, claiming 796 wickets and amassing 3,534 runs. Yet, it was his performances for England between 1970 and 1975 that were particularly memorable.

He gained recognition with a remarkable 7-83 against a Rest of the World XI in 1970. His victims included Eddie Barlow, Graeme Pollock, Mushtaq Mohammad, Garry Sobers, Clive Lloyd, Mike Proctor, and Intikhab Alam. “Securing those seven wickets earned me a place on the Ashes tour,” he later reminisced. “A journalist once remarked it was the best seven wickets ever taken.”

Lever made his Test debut during the 1970-71 Ashes tour, which England ultimately won. On his subsequent Ashes tour, Lever remained devastating. His impressive performance of 6-38 against Australia in the sixth Test of 1974-75 contributed to an innings-and-four-run victory in Melbourne.

Although he was less renowned for his batting, on his day, he could compete with the best. In 1971, he formed a resilient eighth-wicket partnership of 168 with Ray Illingworth against India. Lever’s score of 88 was his most significant Test contribution, made even more special as it occurred at Old Trafford.

By the end of his international career, Lever had represented England in 17 Tests and 10 ODIs, participating in the inaugural ODI in 1971. He claimed 41 Test wickets and an additional 11 in ODIs.

After hanging up his boots, he continued to impact cricket as a coach, working with Lancashire and later assisting Ray Illingworth during his time as England's chairman of selectors. Lever’s dedication to the sport extended into his retirement, as he helped grassroots players enhance their skills through coaching at local clubs in Devon.

"We are profoundly saddened by the news of Peter Lever’s passing at the age of 84. Peter was inducted into our Hall of Fame last year after participating in 301 First-Class matches from 1960 to 1976, taking 796 wickets. Our thoughts are with his family and friends," stated Lancashire County Cricket Club in a social media update on Thursday.