Bob Simpson: Cricket legend dies aged 89

Australian cricket legend Bob Simpson has died at the age of 89.

Simpson was a key figure in the game for more than four decades, and first toured as an allrounder in 1957.

His portfolio as a sportsman was significant, with his career extended through coaching and commentating.

Simpson grew up in Marrickville and made his Sheffield Shield debut for New South Wales in the 1952-53 season.

He went on to represent Australia in 62 Tests and two ODIs between 1957 and 1978.

The star scored 4869 Test runs and took 71 wickets, while captaining Australia in 39 Tests. He then went on to coach Australia from 1986 to 1996 and helped win the World Cup in 1987.

Famously, in 1977, Simpson came out of retirement at the age of 41 to lead Australia against India.

“Simmo” was added to the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1985, and the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2006.

He also had a stint in county cricket, and coached Leicestershire and Lancashire.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has paid tribute to Simpson.

“Bob Simpson’s extraordinary service to Australian cricket spanned generations. As a player, captain and then era-defining coach, he set the highest of standards for himself and the champions he led. He will be long remembered by the game he loved. May he rest in peace,” the PM wrote on X.

Tributes are flowing for Simpson on social media.

“RIP Bobby Simpson. Great player, in our top 5 all time test openers, brilliant slips fieldsman and Australian captain. An inspiration to young cricketers on technique and fair play. Condoned sledging,” one Facebook user wrote.

“There are two reasons that Australian cricket is the success it is today. One is Allan Border, the other is Bob Simpson,” another wrote.

“How can you not remember Bob with the utmost respect. During World Series cricket comes out of retirement and still scored a ton. Elder statesman of Australian cricket, RIP,” another commented.