Legendary Australia captain, coach Bob Simpson dies at 89

Former Australia captain Bob Simpson and coach has passed away in Sydney at the age of 89.

Simpson played 62 Test matches for Australia between 1957 and 1978, scoring 4,869 runs at an average of 46.81, with 10 centuries to his name. He also contributed with the ball, taking 71 wickets with his leg spin.

He first retired in 1968 after leading Australia in 29 Tests but made a remarkable return in 1977 at the age of 41 after the World Series Cricket crisis. Taking charge of a weakened side, Simpson guided Australia through one of its most challenging times. His innings of 311 against England at Old Trafford in 1964 remains one of the greatest in Australian cricket history.

Simpson also shared a record-breaking opening partnership with Bill Lawry, with the pair scoring nearly 3,600 runs together.

His most lasting impact, however, came as Australia’s first full-time national coach. Taking over in 1986, Simpson rebuilt the team when it was struggling. Under his leadership, Australia won the 1987 World Cup, regained the Ashes in 1989, and beat the West Indies in 1995 to reclaim the Frank Worrell Trophy after 19 years.

After leaving the national coaching role in 1996, Simpson continued to work with several teams, including county sides in England, India, Rajasthan, and the Netherlands.

He was recognised for his achievements throughout his career, being named Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1965, inducted into both the Australian and ICC Halls of Fame, and appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2007.

Cricket Australia chairman Mike Baird expressed his condolences, calling it a sad moment for the game.

“Bob Simpson was one of the greats of Australian cricket and this is a sad day for anyone fortunate to have watched him play or who benefited from his wisdom,” Baird said.