Australian cricket legend Richie Benaud dies at the age of 84

RIP Richie

The word legend can be overused in sport but it is a fitting description for Richie Benaud, who has died at the age of 84.

Benaud, a leg spin bowler, played Test cricket for Australia for 12 years between 1952 and 1964.

But the end of his cricket career was merely the start of another pursuit at which he was equally talented.

Benaud became a commentator of such note that he is regarded as the defining voice of cricket for generations of cricket fans in both the northern and southern hemispheres.

Australia’s Channel 9 confirmed that Benaud had passed away on Thursday after suffering with skin cancer.

A marvellous man who'll be remembered by all at Channel 9. Rest in peace Richie. #RIPRichie #WWOS https://t.co/okTXkBmE4K

— Channel9 (@Channel9) April 9, 2015

The tributes immediately began to pour in from both the cricketing and those who enjoyed and were inspired by his commentary throughout the years.

Shane Warne led the way with a hugely emotional and heartfelt tribute.

Dear Richie, I’ve known you & Daphne for close to 30 years & to everyone you were a legend on all levels & rightly so too. As a cricketer, commentator & as a person, you were the best there’s ever been & to top it off, an absolute gentleman… For me it was an honour & a privilege to call you a close friend & mentor, we had so many wonderful times together, talking cricket & in particular, our love & passion of leg spin bowling. I will cherish our entertaining dinners & all the fun times we shared over a long period of time. I would also like to thank you & Daphne for all your support & time you made for me as a young cricketer & leg spin bowler trying to make his way as an 18 year old, your tips & advice along the journey meant so much !!! Richie, you were loved by everyone, not just the cricket family, you were the godfather of cricket & you will be missed by all… R.I.P my friend #hero #BowledRichie

A photo posted by Shane Warne (@shanewarne23) on Apr 9, 2015 at 5:35pm PDT

    https://twitter.com/rustyjacko/status/586302500795351040

I loved Richie Benaud’s tribute to Phil Hughes, possibly his last ever broadcast…https://t.co/TudKnmXbGs — Nick Royle (@NickARoyle) April 9, 2015

Very sad to hear the news today of the passing of Richie Benaud. What a legend of a cricketer and broadcaster for @Channel9 @WWOS9 #bestever

— @BrettLee_58 (@BrettLee_58) April 9, 2015

RIP Richie Benaud. Your wonderful way with words about the sport is responsible for my love of cricket. I'm sure I'm not alone. Thank you.

— Danny Kelly (@dannykellywords) April 9, 2015

https://twitter.com/SimonNRicketts/status/586304574874595328