Bob Woolmer: 1948-2007

    

The great man in his own words.

Time for the cricketing world to pull together and produce a World Cup of which he'd be proud. Innovation, excitement, flair and passion ... the hallmarks of a Bob Woolmer side, to which those of us fortunate enough to have watched his teams will attest.

Born in India, capped by England, groundbreaking coach of Warwickshire and South Africa, most recently in charge of Pakistan. The ICC's high-performance manager - overseeing the development of the game's minnows - in between leading the Proteas and Pakistan, he'll have been proud of the performances of Ireland and Bangladesh in the Caribbean.

But the game must go on. How about South Africa v England in the final? A fitting tribute, a thrilling denouement. Whatever happens in the next couple of months, cricket will be all the poorer for Woolmer's death; so young, so ingenious, so much more to give.

Mr Woolmer, all we who love cricket mourn your passing.

We'll miss you, friend.

Robert Andrew Woolmer: 14 May 1948 - 18 March 2007.