The Australian great is widely considered as the ‘complete’ fast bowler. Lillee, who turns 66 today, formed a devastating new-ball partnership with fellow quick Jeff Thomson.

He had a sensational 1972 Ashes, claiming 31 wickets, but the following year he suffered severe spinal stress fractures. He fought his way back with a remodelled action and through intensive physiotherapy.

The new Lillee was equally brilliant and he gave England a torrid time during the 1974-75 Ashes as his 25 scalps and Thommo’s 33 reduced England to rubble. In all, Lillee ended up with 355 wickets from 70 Tests at a great average of 23.92.

Lillee was also known for his explosive temperament. He will forever be remembered for the standoff with Pakistan’s Javed Miandad in Perth in 1981 with the batsman charging at him with the bat after being kicked by the quick.

1948: Jim Watt, Scottish former boxer who became world champion in lightweight division (67).

1957: Nick Faldo, former world No1 English golfer who won six major championships (58).

1961: Alan Pardew, Englishman who is the current Crystal Palace manager (54).

1971: Penny Hardaway, American retired NBA point guard and Olympic gold medallist (44).