Cricket Great Bob Simpson Dies at 89
Bob Simpson, the revered former Australia cricketer, captain, and coach, has passed away at the age of 89.
A Storied Playing Career
Simpson represented Australia in 62 Test matches between 1957 and 1978. He scored 4,869 runs, including 10 centuries, with a highest score of 311. As a leg-spinner, he also claimed 71 wickets and earned acclaim for his sharp slip catching. Simpson captained Australia in 39 Tests, leading the side with determination during a challenging era.
Coaching Architect of a Golden Era
From 1986 to 1996, Simpson became Australia’s first full-time national coach. His tenure transformed Australian cricket, beginning with victory in the 1987 World Cup. He guided the team to regain the Ashes and oversaw the landmark 1995 series win in the Caribbean, ending the West Indies’ 15-year dominance.
Legacy and Tributes
Cricket Australia confirmed his passing and announced that players will wear black armbands and observe a moment of silence in the next ODI. Tributes have poured in from former teammates, international cricket boards, and political leaders, all highlighting Simpson’s immense influence on shaping modern Australian cricket.
