Mike Procter, a revered figure in South African cricket, passed away on February, 17 at the age of 77 due to complications arising from heart surgery. As the first coach of South Africa's post-Apartheid era, Procter leaves behind a legacy as one of the nation's finest cricketers, despite his international career being curtailed by the sporting isolation of South Africa in the 1970s and 1980s.
Procter's impact resonates through the seven Tests he played, all against Australia in 1966-67 and 1969-70. Renowned for his unorthodox chest-on action, he claimed an impressive 41 wickets at an average of 15.02, showcasing his mastery of seam and swing bowling. His standout performance came in Port Elizabeth, where he clinched figures of 6 for 73 in his final Test, contributing to a resounding 323-run victory.
Beyond his bowling prowess, Procter wielded the willow with finesse, averaging 34.83 in his memorable Test series against Australia in 1969-70. His partnership with cricket luminaries like Barry Richards, Graeme and Peter Pollock, and captain Ali Bacher marked a golden era for South African cricket.
Transitioning to domestic cricket, Procter's impact was profound, particularly during his tenure with Gloucestershire from 1968 to 1981. Over 14 seasons, he amassed 14,441 runs at an average of 36.19, including 32 centuries. His bowling prowess was equally impressive, with 833 wickets at an average of 19.56, highlighted by an exceptional 8 for 30 against Worcestershire in 1979.
Procter's talents were not confined to the county circuit. His stellar performance in the Benson & Hedges Cup semi-final in 1977 remains etched in cricketing folklore, where he dismantled Hampshire's batting lineup with four wickets in five balls. This instrumental display propelled Gloucestershire to victory in the final against Kent at Lord's.
Recognised as one of Wisden's Cricketers of the Year in 1970, Procter's cricketing prowess extended to record-breaking feats, including six consecutive sixes off Dennis Breakwell in 1979. His legacy in South Africa was equally illustrious, marked by six consecutive centuries and his impactful coaching tenure after the country's readmission to international cricket.
As a coach, ICC match referee, and South Africa's convenor of selectors, Procter's contributions spanned various facets of the game. His passing in his hometown of Durban leaves a void in the cricketing fraternity, but his legacy lives on through his wife Maryne, two daughters, and the enduring impact he made on South African cricket.