Richie Benaud

[Arthur Crabtree]

In UK, Isaac Newton had one. The rest are aristocrats and politicians.

[Aidan11]

I'm sure they'd give Sir Geoffrey one.

[Aidan11]

(Forgets to insert Kenneth).

[Arthur Crabtree]

Might be as divisive as Thatcher's.

[Aidan11]

Depends if they wait till he's dead.

[andy]

RIP Richie

Extremely sad loss, and thoughts go out to his family

[Making_Splinters]

A huge loss to the game, the voice that defined the English summer and one of Australia's greatest cricketers and captains.

Thoughts go out to the family.

[Aidan11]

Thought the BBC may have had a tribute programme on him. Maybe one is being planned. I hope so because it was he who many people of a certain age heard on BBC's lengthy test match coverage.

[Arthur Crabtree]

There's a programme on BBC Radio5 at eight.

[Aidan11]

5 Live?

I'll put it on. I still hope there will be a TV tribute.

[m@tt]

Last year the cricketing world lost a son, today they've lost a grandfather.

The first Test series I really followed was the 2005 Ashes as a teenager (I'd followed bits before then, but this got me hooked). That was of course his last Test series in England. I remember the fuss they made about the end of his last commentary stint (he of course didn't make a fuss) and was watching on TV as he finished and then when the PA announced it. I didn't know much about him, nor can I say I remember anything about his commentary, but it was clear that this man was incredibly respected and loved by both Australians and, remarkably, the English. That's proved again today by all the articles and stories coming out - it's been lovely to read them and I've been watching some of the video clips too.

[meninblue]

RIP

[KipperJohn]

I must confess to shedding a tear when I heard of his passing. A great cricketer and commentator, but most of all a true gent and lover of our wonderful game. His warmth and wisdom shone like a beacon.

I have one of his books at home - 'My Spin on Cricket'. It's the first thing I shall read when we get back to the UK.

Thank you Richie.

[GarlicJam]

Benaud's family have been offered a state funeral.

Which they have turned down.


True to form, Benaud will not be having a fuss made about him - if he (or family) can help it.

[shankycricket]

Farewell, Richie Benaud! One of the great test allrounders and captains of his era and a voice, which enriched sporting experience in an unprecedented manner. The legend leaves behind an astonishing legacy and the game is a lot poorer for his absence. The voice of cricket is no more. There may never be another like him. May his soul rest in peace.