English cricket to lose a familiar voice
Legendary commentator set to retire
Famed English cricket commentator Henry Blofeld will retire in September.
The 77-year-old, affectionately known as 'Blowers', has worked on the BBC, and sometimes on the ABC in Australia, since 1972.
His final match will be the Test between England and the West Indies at Lord's which starts on September 7.
"All good things come to an end," he said in a statement.
"After nearly 50 years in the commentary box, I have decided the time has come for the last of the old farts to hang up his microphone.
"In all honesty, at the age of almost 78, although I am still rather keener than mustard, I find it harder work than I once did.
"You haven't heard my final 'My Dear Old Thing' quite yet. Happily, I shall be commentating next month on the first two Tests against South Africa, and then for the last one of the summer against the West Indies at Lord's."
Many players have bought joy to thousands but I can't think of anyone who has bought more joy to the airwaves than @blowersh #MyDearOldThing
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) June 23, 2017
A valedictory lobby awaits my dear old thing...maybe a swansong ashes tour and a few charders? Go well j n j https://t.co/hqOsirnlqF
— jim maxwell (@jimmaxcricket) June 23, 2017
Red trousers for commentary duty this w/e. Pigeon-spotting binoculars too. Will willingly receive red wine donations... #Blowers #hattip
— Isabelle Westbury (@izzywestbury) June 23, 2017
"You know, I'm almost 100 now!"@bbctms legend Henry Blofeld on why he's hanging up his mic after 45 years in the commentary box #Blowers pic.twitter.com/EPAqhQ2cx9
— BBC Radio 5 live (@bbc5live) June 23, 2017
Farewell @blowersh a true Cricket legend. Our favourite #BlowersQuote "Monty Python comes up and bowls" @MontyPanesar pic.twitter.com/cd3MCjPBfW
— NCCC (@NorthantsCCC) June 23, 2017
My dear old thing! @blowersh
— Lord's Ground (@HomeOfCricket) June 23, 2017
Just two more Lord's Tests to go. It's going to be emotional! Won't be the same without you 😢 pic.twitter.com/gBW7ljDzD0
It's been an absolute privilege and GREAT fun to share tours & commentary boxes with @blowersh. Unparalleled at painting pictures with words https://t.co/kCMQn4E6Wc
— AlisonMitchell (@AlisonMitchell) June 23, 2017