Tributes Pour In for Australian Cricket Legend Bob Simpson
Remembering Bob Simpson: A Cricket Icon
The International Cricket Council (ICC) expressed its sorrow on Sunday following the passing of former Australian captain Bob Simpson, recognizing his significant impact as a player, captain, and coach during Australia's ascent in world cricket throughout the 1990s.
Simpson, a pivotal figure in Australian cricket history, passed away on Saturday at the age of 89.
ICC chairman Jay Shah released a statement honoring Simpson's contributions, stating that his legacy will endure.
“Bob Simpson was truly one of the legends of our sport, and it is with great sadness that we acknowledge his passing. His legacy is monumental. As a player, captain, and later as a coach, he played a crucial role in shaping Australian cricket and inspiring the global cricket community,” Shah remarked.
“He mentored and developed a generation of players who became legends themselves, and his influence reached far beyond the cricket field.
“On behalf of the International Cricket Council, I extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and the entire cricket community. His loss is a significant blow to the sport, but his contributions will forever be honored and remembered,” he added.
Simpson, an ICC Hall of Famer, represented Australia in 62 Test matches from 1957 to 1978, amassing 4,869 runs at an impressive average of 46.81, including 10 centuries and 27 half-centuries, with a top score of 311.
A talented leg-spinner, he claimed 71 wickets at an average of 42.26, achieving two five-wicket hauls with best figures of five for 57. Additionally, he was known for his exceptional fielding skills, having taken 110 catches.
After retiring in 1968, Simpson made a remarkable return as Test captain in 1978 at the age of 41, leading a depleted Australian team.
Post-retirement, he became Australia's first full-time coach and also served as a national selector.
He concluded his career with 10 Test centuries, all scored while captaining the Australian team, including a remarkable 311 against England in Manchester in 1964.