Former England spinner dies

Former England spinner David Allen has died at the age of 78 years old.

Former England spinner David Allen has died at the age of 78 years old.

Allen played 39 Test matches between January 1960 and June 1966, clinching 122 wickets at a solid average of 30.97.

A decent all-rounder, the the right-hander also scored 918 runs in 51 innings, with a highest score of 88.

The talented Allen played for Gloucestershire between 1953 and 1972, taking more than 1,000 first-class wickets.

"Gloucestershire County Cricket Club is saddened to announce the death of former player and club president David Allen at the age of 78. Our sincere sympathy goes out to his family and friends," read a statement from the county.

Erstwhile South African Test cricketer Chris Duckworth passed away at the age of 81 years old earlier this month.

Duckworth played two Tests against England in Port Elizabeth and Johannsburg in 1957, when the five-match series ended in a two-two draw.

The middle-order batsman toured the United Kingdom in 1955 and 1960 as understudy wicketkeeper to the veteran Johnny Waite.

"On behalf of the CSA family I extend our heart-felt condolences to his family, friends, cricketing colleagues and all the people who were close to him and who were touched by his life," said Cricket South Africa chief executive Haroon Lorgat.

Duckworth is survived by his wife Dawn, son Anthony, daughters Padi and Caroline – and seven grandchildren.

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