Last Updated on 3 years by Charbel Coorey
Cricket News: Reactions: Andrew Symonds tragically dies after car accident | Champion all-rounder Andrew Symonds passes away – the reactions
Australia and the cricketing world is in mourning once again after the shock passing of champion all-rounder Andrew Symonds. Symonds passed away after a car accident outside Townsville in Queensland on Saturday night, barely two months after the cricketing fraternity was left shocked and saddened following the passing of Rod Marsh and Shane Warne.
The 46-year old was a much-loved character. People close to him described him as a larrikin and a cult figure, and his loss will be felt for years to come.
Symonds, affectionately known as ‘Roy’, helped revolutionise the role of a middle order all-rounder in white-ball cricket. He played 198 ODIs for Australia, striking 5,088 runs at an average of nearly 40 and strike rate of 92.55, along with 133 wickets. This includes 515 runs in 13 World Cup innings at a superb average of 103.00. He was also magnificent in the field, with a number of superb run outs and catches throughout his career.
Symonds was also more than handy in the longest format. He played 26 Tests, scoring 1462 runs at 40.61 and picking up 24 wickets with his off-spin and medium-pace bowling.
Fans, players & politicians pay tribute to Andrew Symonds
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Australia Prime Minister were among the millions who paid tribute to the all-rounder. Palaszczuk shared her “deep condolences” to Symonds’ family and described him as “an outstanding player – dynamic, entertaining and skilful – who made an unforgettable contribution to Queensland and Australian cricket”.
Prime Minister Morrison said, “Just awful to hear the news of the passing of Andrew Symonds. Roy was an incredible talent and a great character of Australian sport. Loved by his teammates and fans alike, he will be sorely missed by many. My condolences to his family, friends and the cricket community.”
Ricky Ponting, who famously backed Andrew Symonds against the selectors’ wishes just before the 2003 World Cup, also paid tribute.
“If roy shook your hand you had his word, that’s the sort of bloke he was and that’s why i always wanted him on my team”
Ricky Ponting
The likes of Adam Gilchrist, Virat Kohli and many other current and former cricketers also paid tribute.
