Delhi: Former Australia captain and great all -rounder Bob Simpson died in Sydney at the age of 89 on Saturday. Cricket Australia has officially confirmed his death. There is a wave of mourning in the cricket world due to his departure.

Sourav Ganguly paid tribute

Former captain of the Indian cricket team Sourav Ganguly expressed deep grief over the death of Simpson. He wrote on the social media platform X, “RIP Bob Simpson. Memories of 1999 World Cup and the time spent with you in Lancashire will always be in my heart and memories. You were a gentleman from the heart.”

Significantly, Bob Simpson was the advisor of the Indian team during the 1999 World Cup. Apart from this, he also gave coaching to county teams Lessesterreshire and Lancashire in England.

Australian cricketers also remembered

On the death of Simpson, former Australia captain Steve Waugh and Alan Border expressed deep condolences and described them as the basis of the heights of Australian cricket.

Former opener Matthew Hayden wrote on Instagram, “A true veteran of Australian cricket has left us. His legacy as a batsman, captain, coach and guide enhanced many generations. Their influence will always be immortal.”

Hayden also told that his art of playing sweep shots goes to Simpson.

Great career as player and coach

Bob Simpson played 62 Test matches for Australia from 1957 to 1978. During this, he scored 4869 runs at an average of 46.81, including 10 centuries and 27 half -centuries. His highest score was 311 runs. Apart from batting, he caught 110 catches and also took 71 wickets.

Simpson especially came into the limelight when he returned from retirement at the age of 41 and took the captaincy of the Australian team during the world series cricket.

New saga of success written in coaching career

From 1986 to 1996, Simpson was the head coach of Australia. During his tenure, the team won the World Cup in 1987, Ashes in England in 1989 and the historic Test series against West Indies in 1995.