Former Australian captain and celebrated coach Bob Simpson has died at the age of 89. Cricket Australia confirmed his passing in Sydney on Saturday. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was among those who paid heartfelt tribute to his “extraordinary service” to the game.
Simpson represented Australia in 62 Tests, leading the side in 39 of them, and maintained an impressive batting average of 46.81. Born and raised in Sydney, he made his first national tour in 1957 and quickly earned a reputation as one of Australia’s most complete all-rounders.
From Patience to Milestones
Simpson waited until his 30th Test to register his maiden century, producing a memorable 311 at Old Trafford in 1964. After retiring in 1967, he returned to the field a decade later at 41 during the World Series Cricket era.
Albanese praised Simpson’s enduring influence, stating:“As a player, captain and then era-defining coach, he set the highest of standards for himself and the champions he led. He will be long remembered by the game he loved.”
Leadership On and Off the Field
Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird remembered Simpson as a cornerstone of a dominant 1960s Australian side and a guiding figure in later years.
Baird said, “Bob’s decision to come out of retirement in 1977 to lead the Australian team during the advent of World Series Cricket was a wonderful service to the game. His coaching set the foundation for a golden generation in Australian cricket.
Pioneering Australia’s Coaching Era
In the 1980s, Simpson became Australia’s first full-time coach. He helped restore the team’s dominance and mentored future greats like Shane Warne.His achievements were recognised with his induction into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1985.
Over his first-class career, he amassed 21,029 runs at an average of 56.22. He notched 60 centuries and claimed 349 wickets at 38.07.
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