The former South African allrounder, Mike Procter, has passed away at the age of 77 in Umhlanga.

Procter will be remembered as one of the greatest cricketers ever to come out of South African, and he served sport more as just a player. He was also a national coach, administrator, and match referee.

He played for South Africa, the Free State, Rhodesia, Natal, Western Province and Gloucestershire in England. 

He was named as one of Wisden's five cricketers of the 1970's.

In 401 first-class games he scored 21936-runs while also taking 1414 wickets. He had a highest score of 254-runs while boosting with the best bowling figures of 9/71 in an innings. He also played in 271 List A games, scoring 6624-runs and taking 334 wickets.

Because of isolation he only represented South Africa in 7 Tests, scoring 226-runs and taking a ridiculous 41 wickets.

He was the South African coach for the 1992 Cricket World Cup in Australia where they reached the semi-finals, while he also took the national side on their tour of England in 1994. He also coached at the Free State Cricket Union where he guided and help mould players such as Allan Donald.

Mike Procter - Wisden

Reacting to the news of Procter's passing the former Proteas and Free State fast bowler, Allan Donald, hailed the cricketing great via his social media.

“I’m so rocked by the tragic news that Mike Procter had passed away this afternoon,” said the player known as White Lighting.

“A magnificent fast bowler that bagged over 1300 wickets and a very dangerous batter down the order.

“I was lucky enough to have Procky as our head coach in the 1992 World Cup and 1994 tour to England and our coach at the Free State Cricket union.

“A man you could listen to for hours as the stories just flowed from his experiences and the learning that I took from that was priceless.

“We will miss you great man and thank you so much for the impact you had on my career! My sincere condolences go out to the entire Proctor family at this difficult time. RIP Procky.”

Procter is survived by his wife Maryna and three children, Greg, Jessica and Tammy.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport