Former England cricketer Sir Geoffrey Boycott confirms second cancer diagnosis

In a sobering announcement, Sir Geoffrey Boycott, the iconic former England batter, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with throat cancer for the second time. The 83-year-old cricket legend, known for his toughness both on and off the field, is set to undergo surgery later this month to combat the illness.

Sir Geoffrey's first encounter with throat cancer came in 2002 when he was 62 years old. At that time, he underwent gruelling chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments, emerging victorious against the disease in 2003. Now, more than two decades later, he faces a similar challenge. Boycott expressed his characteristic determination.

 “In the last few weeks I have had an MRI Scan, CT Scan, a PET Scan, and two biopsies and it has now been confirmed I have throat cancer and will require an operation," he told Telegraph Sport.

 I will just get on with it and hope for the best: Sir Geoffrey Boycott

He said that to overcome the disease he would require exceptional medical facilities and luck in his hand. The legendary batter is optimistic and is hoping for the best. 

“From past experience I realise that to overcome cancer a second time I will need excellent medical treatment and quite a bit of luck and even if the operation is successful every cancer patient knows they have to live with the possibility of it returning. So I will just get on with it and hope for the best,” he added.

Throughout his illustrious career, Sir Geoffrey was renowned for his concentration at the crease. He played 108 Tests for England and scored 8114 runs, including 22 centuries. He also featured in 609 first-class games and hit 151 centuries during his 25-year career, primarily with Yorkshire. 

Also read: Geoffrey Boycott slams England's Bazball approach

After retiring from the game in 1986, he transitioned into a successful career as a cricket commentator and expert, most notably spending 14 years with BBC's Test Match Special before retiring in 2020.

Sir Geoffrey's battle with cancer is not his only health challenge in recent years. In 2018, he underwent quadruple bypass open heart surgery, further testament to his fighting spirit.