Geoffrey Boycott and Andrew Strauss knighted: Details here
What's the story
Former English cricket greats Geoffrey Boycott and Andrew Strauss have been knighted for their services to the sport of cricket. Both of them enjoyed a glorious career with England. Notably, former British Prime Minister Theresa May had recommended their names in her resignation honors list. With this, a total of 34 international cricketers have now received knighthood. Here is more.
Delightful
ECB's Chief Executive delighted with the move
Following the announcement, ECB's Chief Executive Tom Harrison expressed his delight on Strauss being knighted. He also said Strauss is an exceptional person who did a lot for the sport as well as the country. "Our heartfelt congratulations also go to Sir Geoffrey Boycott, honored for his long career and passionate dedication to the sport," added Harrison.
Boycott
May recognized Boycott as her cricketing hero
After recommending the knighthood for these former cricketers, May said that she always recognized Boycott as one of her cricketing heroes. She was mesmerized by his knack of awesome gameplay and his consistent rate of scoring runs. "And what did you know about Geoffrey Boycott? Geoffrey Boycott stuck to it and he got the runs in the end," said May.
Knighthood
Strauss contributions are immense
As England celebrates the knighthood of Strauss, it must be noted that his contributions are immense. While he led England to number one in Test cricket for the first time, along with an Ashes win in Australia in 2010-11, his strategy as the then director of England's men's team helped them win their maiden ICC World Cup this year.
Boycott's knighthood
Boycott's knighthood raises a few eyebrows
As far as Boycott's knighthood is concerned, it is a bit controversial. While he enjoyed an impeccable career for England, he was involved in a controversy in 1998, after he had assaulted his former girlfriend in France. As for his career, he has 150+ First-Class centuries, while he was also the leading Test run-scorer, among Englishmen, for a while.
Cricketers
Boycott, Strauss among 16 English international cricketers to be knighted
To date, while 34 international cricketers have received the knighthood, Boycott and Strauss join the list of 16 international cricketers from England to receive the honor. As of now, England leads the list, followed by West Indies (12), New Zealand and South Africa (two each), and Australia and India (one each).