Former Australian captain and coach Bob Simpson died in Sydney at the age of 89. Cricket Australia officially confirmed his death on August 16, 2025. Simpson was not only a bright batter and an excellent slip fielder, but as a coach he delivered Australian cricket to new heights.
Simpson debuted in 1957 and continued to play until 1978. He played a total of 62 Tests, scoring 4,869 runs and scored 10 centuries. His best score against England in 1964 was 311 runs. In addition to the bat, he was also a leg spinner and took 71 wickets.
Having 100 catches in slip Bob performed exquisite in slip fielding and caught 110 catches, which is still considered a record for a player other than the wicketkeeper. He led Australia in a total of 39 Tests.
Bob returned after retirement in 1977 and handled the captaincy of the Australian cricket team. At that time, many major players went to play World Series Cricket, causing the team to weaken. Simpson took over at the age of 41 and led the team in the series against India and the West Indies. Australia won the five-match Test series 3-2 against India. After this they retired again.
Bob Simpson (left) led Australia in 39 Tests. Australia won 12 and lost 12, while 15 matches were drawn.
Became Australia's first full-time coach in 1986 Simpson gave Australia a new identity as a coach. He became the first full-time coach of the country in 1986 and remained in the post until 1996. During his tenure, Australia won the World Cup of 1987, regained Ashes from England in 1989 and defeated the West Indies in 1995.
In 1965, Wisden became a cricketer of the year Simpson received many respects in the sports world. He was included in the Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1965, Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1985, Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2006 and ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2013. He was also awarded the Order of Australia.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pays tribute On his death, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to him, writing that 'Bob Simpson's services will be remembered for generations.'
Cricket Australian chairman Mike Baird said: “Simpson strengthened the foundation of Australian cricket and paved the way for future champions.”
Image Credit: Images/graphics belong to (Divya-Bhaskar).