Australian cricket is mourning the loss of one of its most iconic figures, Bob Simpson, who passed away in Sydney at the age of 89. Simpson’s contribution to the sport spanned generations as a player, captain, and transformative coach earning him tributes from across the cricketing world, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
Simpson played 62 Test matches for Australia between 1957 and 1978, scoring 4,869 runs at an average of 46.81, including 10 centuries. His most famous innings came in 1964 at Old Trafford, where he scored 311 runs, his first century in his 30th Test. He captained Australia in 39 Tests, initially taking over from Richie Benaud, and returned from retirement in 1977 at age 41 during the World Series Cricket era.
Coaching Legacy
In 1986, Simpson became Australia’s first full-time head coach, inheriting a struggling team led by Allan Border.
His disciplined approach and tactical acumen helped shape a new generation of stars, including Steve Waugh, David Boon, and Dean Jones.
Under his guidance, Australia won the 1987 World Cup, regained the Ashes in 1989, and claimed the Frank Worrell Trophy in 19952.
Tributes Flow Prime Minister Albanese praised Simpson’s “extraordinary service to Australian cricket,” saying he “set the highest standards for himself and the champions he led.” Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird called him “a mainstay of a very strong Australian team in the 1960s” and “a leader across the game”.
Honours and Recognition
Inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame (1985)
Inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame (2006)
Inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame (2013)
Bob Simpson’s legacy is etched into the very fabric of Australian cricket. His impact as a player and coach helped shape the golden era of the sport, and he will be remembered as one of its true architects.
+ There are no comments
Add yours