Australia were mourning the death of another cricketing legend after news broke that Andrew Symonds had died aged just 46.
Symonds was killed in a car accident and police said they were investigating the single-vehicle accident in Queensland at 11pm on Saturday night.
AFP
Symonds was one of the most destructive cricketers of his generation
He was born in Birmingham before moving at a young age and played 26 Tests, 198 One-Day Internationals, 14 T20s for Australia and won the World Cup in 2003 and 2007.
He was a cult figure with fans thanks to his ferocious batting and had spells in county cricket with Kent, Gloucestershire, Lancashire and Surrey.
A statement from Cricket Australia read: “We are shocked and saddened by the loss of the lovable Queenslander, who has tragically died aged 46.”
Queensland Police said: “Police are investigating a single vehicle crash in Hervey Range, approximately 50 miles from Townsville, which claimed the life of a 46-year-old man.
“Initial reports indicate that shortly after 11 p.m. the car was traveling on Hervey Range Road near Alice River Bridge when it left the carriageway and rolled over.
“Emergency services attempted to revive the 46-year-old driver and sole occupant, but he died of his injuries.
“The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating.”
AFP
Symonds played 198 ODIs for Australia
Former international teammates Andrew Gilchrist, Michael Clarke, Jason Gillespie and Darren Lehmann were among many to pay tribute to Symonds.
Former wicketkeeper Gilchrist tweeted tearful and heartbreaking emojis followed by the simple message: ‘This really hurts. #roy #rip” while Lehmann wrote on Twitter: “Take care up there big man I am (broken heart emoji) loved him so much and our thoughts are with the family at this time. “
West Indies great Brian Lara was among many in the cricketing world to share their sadness at the news.
The 53-year-old tweeted: “We exchanged messages a few hours ago… what is really going on? Confused and sorry! How could we lose another iconic figure in our sport so soon RIP Roy Condolences to Andrew’s family and close friends.
Think of your most loyal, fun and loving friend who would do anything for you. It’s Roy. 💔😞
—Adam Gilchrist (@gilly381) May 15, 2022
We exchanged messages a few hours ago… what is really going on? Confused and sorry! How could we lose another iconic figure in our sport so soon 💔 RIP Roy
Condolences to Andrew’s family and loved ones.#unfair— Brian Lara (@BrianLara) May 15, 2022
The disappearance of Andrew Symond is shocking news for all of us. Not only was he a brilliant all-rounder, but also a powerhouse on the pitch. I have fond memories of the time we spent together in Mumbai Indians.
May his soul rest in peace, condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/QnUTEZBbsD
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) May 15, 2022
Indian great Sachin Tendulkar wrote on Twitter: “The disappearance of Andrew Symond is shocking news for all of us. Not only was he a brilliant all-rounder, but also a powerhouse on the pitch.
“I have fond memories of the time we spent together in Mumbai Indians. May his soul rest in peace, condolences to his family and friends.”