DUBAI: The ICC on Sunday mourned the passing of former Australia captain Bob Simpson, paying tribute to his remarkable impact as a player, captain, and coach during Australia’s rise to the top of world cricket in the 1990s.
Simpson, one of the most influential figures in Australian cricket, passed away on Saturday at the age of 89.
ICC chairman Jay Shah, in a statement, lauded Simpson’s contributions and said his legacy would be long remembered.
“Bob Simpson was one of the true greats of our sport, and it is deeply saddening to hear of his passing. His legacy is immense. As a player, captain, and later as a coach, he shaped Australian cricket and inspired the global game,” Shah said.
“He nurtured and guided a generation of players who became legends themselves, and his influence went far beyond the cricket field. On behalf of the International Cricket Council, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire cricket community. His passing is a profound loss, but his contributions will always be remembered and cherished.”
An ICC Hall of Famer, Simpson played 62 Tests for Australia between 1957 and 1978, scoring 4,869 runs at an average of 46.81, including 10 centuries and 27 half-centuries, with a highest score of 311.
A skilled leg-spinner, he took 71 wickets at 42.26, including two five-wicket hauls, with best figures of 5/57. He was also an exceptional fielder, taking 110 catches.
After initially retiring in 1968, Simpson made a celebrated comeback in 1978 at the age of 41, captaining a weakened Australian side. Following his playing career, he became Australia’s first full-time coach and also served as a national selector.
All of his 10 Test centuries came while leading the Australian team, including a memorable 311 against England in Manchester in 1964.
