Richie Benaud dies aged 84

Cricket icon Richie Benaud, who distinguished himself first as a leg-spinning all-rounder, then as a daring Australian Test captain and later as the 'voice of cricket' in the commentary box, has died at the age of 84.

Benaud's skills, drive and determination took him to the top on and off the cricket field, and made him one of Australia's most recognised people, instantly identifiable simply as Richie.

He played 63 Tests for Australia, was the first player to score 2,000 Test runs and take 200 Test wickets, and never lost a series as Australian captain.

After hanging up his Baggy Green cap, he spent more than four decades as the king of cricket commentators, a man viewed around the world as one of the best callers, watchers and analysts of the game - and perhaps its best ambassador as well.

Benaud died after a battle with skin cancer.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-04-1...d-dead/6009202

RIP Richie

Very sad news, RIP Richie.

Very sad news. Growing up he was the voice of summer.

Rip Richie. :(

RIP Ritchie

reunited with Don in heaven watching Rugby. RIP Richie

RIP Ritchie.

Marvellous innings that

speaking of, a piece from Billy Birmingham: http://www.perthnow.com.au/sport/cri...-1227298360109

Damn

Quote:

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Originally Posted by blueandblack

never lost a series as Australian captain.

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...and in an era where he had played Test Match Cricket for a decade before tasting an Ashes success. I can't ever recall him talking about his own very successful career unless pressed. A great man who was just all class. Jeez we could do with some like him today.

RIP indeed. His life is one to be celebrated as much as his loss will be mourned.