Geoffrey Boycott - Legendary Batter, Brilliant Commentator And Complicated Man

English cricket has perhaps seen no greater enigma than Geoffrey Boycott. There is just no figuring him out, the man cannot be second-guessed and is rigid in his point of view as he was when taking guard at the crease.??As the legend turns 82, here's looking back at the no-nonsense player and commentator.?

Reuters

As a batter, he was second to none when it came to playing long innings. Not known for quick scoring, but Boycott could fort if time was the factor. His appetite for runs never diminished though. Over 20 centuries and more than 8000 runs in 100-plus Tests in a career spanning almost 20 years is ample proof of his caliber as a batsman. A legend in his own right.?

Reuters

For the next generation, however, it was as a commentator that he would shine. After his bat was replaced with a mic, well Boycott never changed. He was still strong in his views and never hesitated in calling a spade a spade. Even when it came to England, he minced no words in criticising. But it was this refreshing honesty that drew the public to him.?

As an individual, he has been called selfish, brash and even rude. But those who know him well have described him as a warm person. Just shows it is all about perspective. Boycott is never one to hold back so he speaks straight from the heart. For some, it is refreshing, for others, it appears unruly.?

Reuters

The man was not liked by everyone. But he was a person who never hesitated to speak his mind. Be it with the willow or the mic, Boycott was always calling it as he saw it. It did not earn him too many friends, but that was not something he ever worried about.

A no-nonsense kind of individual and not known to be diplomatic, Boycott never held back. It was this quality that set him apart. As a player, he was unique, as a cricket expert he was in a class all by himself. ??

Love him or hate him, the man is complex and not without his flaws. But then he would not be the Boycott we have come to know over the years if he were anything else. That's Boycott for you, a legendary batter, brilliant commentator and a complicated man. ????