Bob Simpson, the former Australia Test cricket captain and coach, has passed away at the age of 89, Cricket Australia confirmed on Saturday. Simpson’s contribution to Australian cricket, both as a player and coach, has left a lasting impact on the game.
Simpson played 62 Tests for Australia from 1957 to 1978. He scored 4,869 runs, including 10 centuries, and claimed 71 wickets with his leg spin. Known for his exceptional skills as a slip fielder, Simpson made a name for himself in the cricketing world.
He initially retired from the game in 1968 but made a remarkable return in 1977 as Test captain at the age of 41, after several top Australian players joined World Series Cricket.
“Bob Simpson was one of the greats of Australian cricket,” said Cricket Australia Chair Mike Baird. “He was a brilliant opening batter, a superb slips fielder, and a handy spin bowler. He was a key figure in a strong Australian team in the 1960s and played an important leadership role as captain and coach.”
Simpson’s return to Test cricket in 1977 marked a turning point for the Australian team. Under his leadership, Australia successfully navigated the challenges of World Series Cricket.
His coaching career was just as significant, laying the groundwork for what would become Australia’s golden generation of cricket. Under his guidance, the team, led by Allan Border, won the 1987 World Cup and regained both the Ashes and the Frank Worrell Trophy.
Shane Warne, the legendary leg-spinner, praised Simpson as the best coach he ever played under, noting how Simpson helped him develop his skills. Simpson also coached Lancashire and the Netherlands, and even worked as a consultant with the Indian team in the late 1990s.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences, writing, “Bob Simpson’s extraordinary service to Australian cricket spanned generations. He will be long remembered by the game he loved.”
Bob Simpson’s legacy as a player, captain, and coach will continue to influence Australian cricket for years to come.
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