Legendary Australian captain and coach Bob Simpson has passed away at the age of 89. Under his coaching, Australia regained its dominance in world cricket in the 1980s and 1990s under the captaincy of Allan Border and Mark Taylor. Simpson’s role as a coach after his playing career was also impeccable.
Cricket Australia (CA) chairman Mike Baird expressed his condolences, saying, “Bob Simpson was one of the greats of Australian cricket. This is a sad day for anyone who watched him play or benefited from his knowledge.” Simpson, who was inducted into the ICC’s prestigious ‘Hall of Fame’, is in charge of Australia’s dressing room for the first time as a full-time coach.
Simpson, who made his debut against South Africa in 1957, scored 4869 runs in 62 Test matches at an average of 46.81. He scored 10 centuries and 27 half-centuries. Although initially known as an all-rounder, Simpson established himself as a reliable Australian opener in the 1960s. In 1964, he scored 1381 runs in a single season, which was a record at the time. That same year, he played a career-best innings of 311 runs against England in Manchester. He hit several more double centuries in the next two years.
The partnership of Simpson and Bill Lawrie was a terror to the opposing team and bowlers. The two scored 3596 runs in 62 innings, which was the highest opening partnership in Test history for a long time. Since then, only six pairs have surpassed them. Simpson was also effective as a legspinner. He has 71 wickets in Tests, including two fives. In his last Test against India in 1968, he took a career-best bowling figure of 8 wickets. He also achieved a five-wicket haul in the same match.
After his first retirement, Simpson returned to cricket in 1977 at the age of 41. At that time, many Australian star players joined World Series cricket, and Simpson had to take up leadership again. He led the team in the home series against India and the tour of the West Indies, before retiring from cricket altogether.
FAQ
Who was Bob Simpson?
Bob Simpson was a legendary Australian cricketer, captain, and coach who played a major role in shaping Australia’s cricketing success.
When did Bob Simpson pass away?
Bob Simpson passed away at the age of 89.
What were Bob Simpson’s major achievements as a player?
He scored 4,869 runs in 62 Tests, including 10 centuries, and took 71 wickets as a legspinner. He also scored a career-best 311 against England in 1964.
What was his contribution as a coach?
As coach, Simpson helped Australia regain dominance in the 1980s and 1990s under Allan Border and Mark Taylor’s captaincy.
Was Bob Simpson recognized with any honors?
Yes, Bob Simpson was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame for his remarkable contributions to cricket as both a player and coach.
