South African cricket icon Mike Procter, revered for his exceptional skills both with bat and ball, breathed his last on Saturday (February 17) after complications arising from heart surgery. Aged 77, Procter leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the world of cricket.
Procter’s illustrious career spanned 401 first-class matches, during which he amassed an astounding 21,936 runs, including 48 centuries, and claimed 1,417 wickets with 70 five-wicket hauls. Despite South Africa’s sporting isolation in the 1970s and 80s, Procter made his mark in seven Test matches, all against Australia, where he showcased his prowess with 41 wickets at an impressive average of 15.02.
Renowned for his high-quality seam bowling and unorthodox style, Procter was a force to be reckoned with. His best performances were often reserved for Gloucestershire, where he played as an overseas player for 13 years. Procter’s influence transformed the struggling county into a formidable force, leading them to second place in 1969.
Procter’s remarkable feats extended beyond the pitch, earning him recognition as one of Wisden’s five cricketers of the year in 1970. He achieved the rare feat of taking two hat-tricks in consecutive games in 1979, a testament to his extraordinary talent.
Following his playing career, Procter transitioned into the role of a match referee, where he encountered controversy, notably during the Oval Test in 2006 and the Sydney Test in 2008. Despite the challenges, Procter remained a respected figure in cricket circles, later serving as South Africa’s convener of selectors.
Procter’s legacy lives on through his wife Maryne, two daughters, and the countless fans who admired his contributions to the sport. He will be remembered as a true cricketing legend whose impact transcended generations.