JOHANNESBURG: 77-year-old Mike Procter, the dynamic cricket all-rounder from South Africa and former national coach, was reported to be in a serious condition in intensive care on Monday, as confirmed by his family. According to a statement released through Procter’s charitable foundation and conveyed to AFP by his wife Maryna and their two daughters, he is currently undergoing treatment in a hospital close to his hometown, the coastal city of Durban in South Africa.
The statement further revealed that Procter encountered complications during a routine surgical procedure last week, and while recuperating in ICU, he suffered a cardiac incident. At present, he remains in intensive care, focusing on his recovery, and his family has requested support and prayers from well-wishers.
Procter’s illustrious international cricket career with South Africa was interrupted in 1970 due to the country’s exclusion from the global cricketing arena owing to its apartheid policies. Nonetheless, before the ban, South Africa tasted victory in six out of the seven Tests he participated in, all against Australia.
Primarily recognized as a formidable fast bowler, Procter amassed 41 wickets at an impressive average of 15.02 runs across his seven Tests. Notably, he also showcased his prowess as a flamboyant batsman, matching a world batting record by scoring six first-class centuries in consecutive innings.
Following South Africa’s reintegration into international cricket post-apartheid, Procter transitioned into coaching and led the national side to the semi-finals of the 1992 Cricket World Cup.
Procter’s cricketing journey extended over 16 years in the first-class arena, including a remarkable 14-season stint with the English county Gloucestershire, during which he captained the team for five seasons, earning legendary status.
His exceptional talent was highlighted by the six consecutive centuries he scored for Rhodesia between 1970 and 1971, culminating in a career-best 254 against Western Province.
Across his first-class career, Procter amassed 21,082 runs at an average of 36.92, including 47 centuries, while also claiming 1,357 wickets at an average of 19.07 runs.
