Peter Lever passes away at 84, leaving a cricket legacy
- Peter Lever, a former fast bowler for England, has died at the age of 84, confirmed by his former club Lancashire.
- Lever was part of the 1970-71 Ashes-winning team and played a crucial role in England's bowling strategy during his career.
- His legacy as a cricketer and coach will be remembered, marking a significant loss for the cricketing community.
In London, on March 27, 2025, the cricket community was saddened by the news of Peter Lever's passing at the age of 84. Lever was a significant figure in English cricket, most notably recognized for his contributions as a fast bowler during the 1970-71 Ashes series. He played for England from 1970 until 1975, appearing in 17 tests and 10 one-day internationals, including playing in the inaugural ODI in 1971. His debut for England came against a Rest of the World XI where he showcased his skills by taking 7 wickets for 83 runs, earning his official England cap later that year in Australia. Lever's career was marked not only by his impressive statistics but also by memorable moments, such as his near-fatal incident involving New Zealand's Ewen Chatfield in 1975. This incident saw Chatfield collapse after an unfortunate deflection of a bouncer, leading to a dramatic scene on the field as members of the England team feared he had died. Thankfully, the timely intervention of team physiotherapist Bernard Thomas revived Chatfield. After the incident, Lever's international appearances dwindled, as he played only one additional test after the harrowing event. Throughout his first-class career from 1960 to 1976, Lever played 301 matches, amassing an impressive total of 796 wickets. His skillful bowling and determination led him to be inducted into the Lancashire County Cricket Club Hall of Fame the previous year. Beyond statistics, he was known for his influence on the younger cricketers and his tough coaching style, as he pushed players to face the best bowlers and ran intense training sessions, complemented by moments of camaraderie like sharing bacon sandwiches after long runs. His legacy continues to resonate with those who participated in the cricketing world during his time. The response to his passing has been profound, with tributes pouring in from fans, former players, and clubs, highlighting the impact he had on cricket in England. His contributions to the sport and the memories created during his playing years remain cherished among cricket enthusiasts, ensuring that he will not be forgotten by the community he influenced so greatly.