Notts mourn former skipper Clive Rice

Rice played for Notts for 12 years between 1975 and 1987 and helped them to two county championships, and as their coach was instrumental in bringing Kevin Pietersen to England in 2000.

He died in Cape Town following treatment for a brain tumour.

Former Notts star Darren Bicknell, who was also brought to the county by Rice in 2000, said: “Quite frankly, he was the reason why I joined Notts.”

“The idea of working with someone like Ricey, who was such a legend, was one of the big reasons why I wanted to come and play at Trent Bridge.

“He was an incredibly strong man who didn’t tolerate fools easily and he demanded the best out of you every day.

“He was a very courageous man; one of the toughest men I have ever met. The fact that this has got him is really sad.

“I’m in awe of the guy really. It’s come as quite a shock and I’m incredibly sad for him, for his wife and for his family.”