The local and international cricket community is shocked by the sudden death of former Australian star Andrew Symonds on Saturday night.
The local and international cricket community is shocked by the sudden death of former Australian star Andrew Symonds on Saturday night.
The 46-year-old’s family confirmed in a statement on popular handyman was killed in a car accident outside Townsville, where he lived. Rescuers on the spot tried to save him but failed.
Players, former teammates and fans have taken to social media to share their devastation at the tragic news, which comes just two months after the deaths of Australian cricket mates Shane Warne and Rod Marsh.
Michael Clarke, who was incredibly close to Symonds when he joined the Australian team first the couple broke up and their relationship broke uptook to Instagram to say he was “devastated”.
Clarke posted a broken heart emoji over a photo of him and Symonds carrying Shane Warne on their backs after the 2006-2007 Ashes series.
Adam Gilchrist wrote on Twitter: “This really hurts. #roy #rip “.
“Devastated to hear of Andrew Symonds’ death in a car accident in Australia,” wrote former Pakistani fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar.
“We shared an excellent relationship on and off the pitch. Thoughts and prayers with the family. #Andrew Symonds ”
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk shared her “deep condolences” with the star’s family, remembering him as “an exceptional player – dynamic, fun and skilled – who has made an unforgettable contribution to Queensland and Australian cricket”.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison tweeted: “It was simply horrifying to hear the news of Andrew Symonds’ death. Roy was an incredible talent and a great character in Australian sports. Loved by his teammates and fans, he will be missed by many. My condolences to his family, friends and the cricket community. “
Radio star Ryan “Fitzy” Fitzgerald described the news as “tragic”.
“I really enjoyed the way Roy dealt with life and especially his cricket. Loyal and passionate. #RIPROY,” the Fitzy & Wippa guest tweeted.
“Horrible news to wake up to,” wrote former Australian paceman Jason Gillepsie.
“Absolutely devastated. We all will miss you, man. #RIPROy “.
Fans also expressed their shock at the news, describing him as “one of the funniest day cricketers I had the pleasure of watching during my childhood and adolescence.”
Others recalled the iconic moment Symonds faced a streaker on the pitch, describing it as “the greatest moment in Australian cricket history”.
Originally published as Michael Clarke, the world of cricket reacts to the shocking death of Andrew Symonds
