The death of legendary player and voice of the game Richie Benaud has sent shockwaves through the cricketing community.
Mr Benaud died in his sleep on Friday after a long battle with skin cancer.
Channel Nine, his employer for nearly four decades, hailed him as “a marvellous man”.
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His death has robbed Australia “of a national treasure”, Nine CEO David Gyngell said in a statement posted on social media.
“Richie is a true legend not only to all the people who knew him, but to the many millions who didn’t. Which speaks volumes. He’s been part of the Australian psyche,” Mr Gyngell said.
“We shall miss him dearly, but we’ll forever treasure his indelible memory and all the marvellous values for which he stood.”
Cricket Australia described Benaud as the nation’s most famous cricketer after Sir Donald Bradman.
“Australia never lost a series when Benaud was in charge, thanks to his aggressive, thoughtful leadership, which included a knack for switching the field shortly before a breakthrough,” the cricket organisation said in a statement.
Prime Minister Tony Abbott told ABC Radio “he certainly will be very, very much missed”.
“There would hardly be an Australian over the last 40 years who hasn’t listened to Richie Benaud,” Mr Abbott said.
Retiring captain Michael Clarke said Benaud was “an absolute superstar, a gentleman”.
“Richie will always be loved because of how great a guy he is. But his knowledge and how he does commentate is probably underrated because so many people love his personality,” Mr Clarke said.
“They don’t actually realise how good he is at what he does.”
World cup winning team member David Warner honoured the cricket legend in a previously recorded video.
“To have him call out your name sends shivers down your spine when you’re watching replays,” Mr Warner said.
“I don’t think there’s another person on this planet that knows as much about cricket as Richie does.”
Often imitated in the stands among fans who donned the beige blazer and grey wig to dress as him, his sartorial style drew respectful appreciation on Twitter.
Never beige. Vale, #RichieBenaud #RIPRichie — Lachlan Swan (@SwannySA) April 9, 2015
A marvellous man who’ll be remembered by all at Channel 9. Rest in peace Richie. #RIPRichie #WWOS https://t.co/okTXkBmE4K
— Channel 9 (@Channel9) April 9, 2015
Sad news that cricket and commentary legend Richie Benaud has passed away overnight http://t.co/1aiQjfCWK5 pic.twitter.com/4cboMxFWHq — cricket.com.au (@CricketAus) April 9, 2015
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