Vale Richie Benaud

Vale Richie Benaud

Such sad news today with the passing of cricketing legend   Richie Benaud at age 84.

The 84 year old who had been receiving treatment for skin cancer  since late last year passed away in his sleep at a Sydney hospital overnight.

Mr Benaud had a long and illustrious career in cricket playing from 1948- 1964. In that time he played 63 tests for Australia  the first player to score 2,000 Test runs and take 200 Test wickets, and never lost a series as Australian captain. After retiring from the game he became one of the most recognisable voices during Kerry Packer’s breakaway World Series Cricket in the 1970 and commented the game ever since for many different broadcasters.

Nine Entertainment Co Chief Executive David Gyngell released the following statement on the passing of Richie Benaud. 

Richie Benaud’s passing has robbed us not only of a national treasure, but a lovely man. Richie earned the profound and lasting respect of everyone across the world of cricket and beyondfirst as an outstanding player and captain, then as an incomparable commentator, and through it all as a wonderful human being. 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.

Since way back in 1977 Richie has been a much loved member of the Nine family. More than that, he sat at the head of our table. We shall miss him dearly, but we’ll forever treasure his indelible memory and all the marvellous values for which he stood.

Cricket is very much the richer for Richie Benaud’s lifelong engagement. And so are we all.  Our deepest sympathies go to Daphne and Richie’s family.

Nine’s Head of Sport, Steve Crawley said  You didn’t have to know Richie to love him. Everything about him. Best in the business bar none. We will miss him the way you miss loved ones.  And at the same time we will thank our lucky stars he came our way at all.

Source ABC    News.com.au

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