FORMER England cricket star Norman Gifford has died at the age of 85.
The iconic spinner, who captained his country aged 44, passed away following a long battle with illness.
Gifford starred for Worcestershire and Warwickshire during a glittering club cricket career.
And he played in 15 Tests for England between 1964 and 1973.
Gifford, a left-arm spinner, claimed 33 wickets at 31.09 for his country.
His crowning moment came a decade later though when he was made England skipper for two ODIs against Australia and Pakistan.
At club level, Gifford became a Worcestershire legend as he helped them to successive County Championships in 1964 and 1965.
In 1974, he captained them to yet another title.
And Gifford’s time there also saw him win three Sunday Leagues.
Later in his career, the ace moved to Warwickshire.
He captained them for five seasons before retiring from cricket in 1988 aged 48.
Gifford’s post-playing career saw him work as a coach before serving as Worcestershire’s Club President.
And he was later given an Honorary Vice Presidency role.
Tributes were paid by fans to Gifford on social media.
One said: “Terrific bowler and a good coach, RIP.”
Another declared: “RIP gentle giant.”
One noted: “Absolute legend.”
Another added: “A lovely man and cricketing sage.”
