Australian Cricket Icon Bob Simpson Dies at 89, Tributes Flow
Australian cricket legend Bob Simpson has passed away at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of outstanding achievements on and off the field.
A Distinguished Career
Simpson was a former Australian Test captain, national cricket coach, and selector.
He made a remarkable comeback to Test cricket at the age of 41, after the game was disrupted by Kerry Packer’s World Series cricket.
In his decorated career, Simpson scored 4869 runs with an impressive average of 46.81 in 62 Test matches, spanning 21 years.
Influence on Australian Cricket
Born in Marrickville, New South Wales, Simpson is remembered as one of the most influential figures in Australian cricket, shaping the culture of the team and contributing to years of dominance.
He is credited with persuading legendary Shane Warne to bowl around the wicket.
Tributes from Across the Cricket Community
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised Simpson’s “extraordinary service to Australian cricket” across generations.
Veteran sports reporter Stephen Quartermain described Simpson as an “Australian cricket giant.”
TV presenter Sandra Sully echoed the sentiment, saying Simpson gave his all to the sport.
Aussie soccer legend Mark Bosnich shared a personal anecdote, remembering Simpson’s kind gesture towards his father.
Awards and Honours
Simpson received numerous accolades, including being named a Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1965, an Order of Australia (AM) in 1978, and an Australian Sports Medal in 2000.
He was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1985, the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2006, and the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2013.