Cricket legend Jack Bannister dies aged 85
FORMER Warwickshire County Cricket bowler and BBC commentator Jack Bannister has died at the age of 85.
Jack Bannister has died
Warwickshire CCC described Bannister as "a true Bear and a pro" this morning as they announced the cricketing legend had passed away.
Bannister took 1,198 first-class wickets during his 18-year career which started in 1950.
Radio station Talksport, where Bannister worked, announced the news today about the former Warwickshire bowler, who also had a long career at the BBC.
Talksport tweeted: "We are saddened to report that our legendary cricket correspondent Jack Bannister passed away last night aged 85."
When he retired from the sport in 1968 he had played 386 matches.
In later life, Bannister provided match commentary for TALKSPORT
After retiring, he became a summariser for the BBC, before working as a commentator in 1988.
He then provided commentary on England internationals on talkSPORT radio station from the comfort of his home while he watched the game on television.
Bannister helped form the PCA and set up pensions
He took five wickets in an innings on 53 different occassions
He took five wickets in an innings on 53 different occasions, including best figures of 10/41 which is still a record for Warwickshire county.
Warwickshire CCC tweeted: "Sad to hear of Jack Bannister's passing. A true Bear and a pro in the comm box. Our thoughts are with his family."
Former England bowler Darren Gough wrote: "RIP jack bannister. A great man who was opinionated, honest, knowledgeable and passionate.
"A top cricketer, writer, broadcaster will be missed."
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Bannister was instrumental in forming the Professional Cricketers' Association, serving as secretary, chairman and president for 20 years.
The PCA tweeted:"All at @PCA are sorry to hear of the death of Jack Bannister, former Warwickshire seamer, broadcaster and key figure in establishment of PCA."
Piers Morgan took to Twitter to pay tribute to Bannister and said he "always enjoyed his commentary".
During his time on the board, he set up a pension scheme for county players.