The cricket world is holding its breath during a distressing time as Mike Procter, the revered former South Africa cricket team coach and celebrated all-rounder, is currently battling critical health conditions. Following a surgical complication, Procter suffered a cardiac incident and is now in the ICU, fighting for his life since Monday, February 12, 2024. This news has deeply saddened fans and the cricket community alike, who have been sending prayers and thoughts to Procter and his family.
The family of the 77-year-old cricket legend shared with AFP that Procter experienced significant challenges during surgery at a hospital near Durban, leading to his admission to intensive care. This development has left many in the cricket fraternity praying for his swift and full recovery.
"Last week Mike experienced a complication during routine surgery. While recovering in ICU he suffered a cardiac incident. He is currently in ICU working on his recovery. We would appreciate it if you kept him in your thoughts and prayers," Procter's family statement said.
Mike Procter's glittering career in numbers
Mike Procter's illustrious cricket career, albeit brief from 1967 to 1970, saw him participating in seven Test matches, securing victories in six. Known for his exceptional bowling skill, Procter took 41 wickets at an outstanding average of 15.02, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
His promising international career was cut short by the international ban on South African cricket in 1970 due to the apartheid regime, a situation that deprived the cricket world of witnessing more of his remarkable talent on the international stage. Despite this setback, Procter's legacy continued to flourish in first-class and List-A cricket, compensating for the shorter span of his international career.
Throughout his 401 first-class matches, Procter amassed 21,936 runs at an average of 36.01, including a memorable 254-run innings for Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) against the Western Province in 1971. His career featured 48 centuries and 109 half-centuries, cementing his status as one of cricket's finest all-rounders.
Moreover, with 1,417 first-class wickets at an impressive average of 19.53, Procter's bowling prowess was undeniable. He remains the sole player in South African history to have achieved over 500 runs and 50 wickets in a single domestic season, highlighting his exceptional all-round capabilities.
After his playing days, Procter continued to contribute to South African cricket as a coach, notably leading the team in the 1992 ODI World Cup, further enriching his legacy in the sport.
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