FANS of England cricket legend Geoffrey Boycott were today missing his analysis of the final Test in the series between England and India after he was diagnosed with cancer.

The former opening batsman announced he had pulled out of a commentating job for the match at The Oval after tests on a lump in his neck showed the "existence of cancerous tissue".

In a statement yesterday, the Yorkshireman said: "Tests were made on a lump which was removed from my neck in hospital last Friday, and today I was informed that the tests revealed the existence of cancerous tissue.

"Further tests will now be taken to determine the extent and possible treatment.

"I am sad to be missing the Oval Test and I wished to explain my sudden withdrawal from commentating."

The usually outspoken 61-year-old Yorkshireman refused to discuss his rumoured illness when questioned about it last week, referring to it as "private".

He was approached as he commentated for TalkSPORT radio during the Third Test at Headingley, but said at the time: "I don't see why I have to discuss anything about my personal life.

"That's private and I want it to remain that way."

It is not known how long it will be before the additional tests on the tissue are completed, a spokeswoman for Boycott said.

He had been due to commentate again for TalkSPORT at today's Test, as well as working for satellite channel ESPN Star.

He is now at home with his family, she added.