TRIBUTES have poured in for Australian cricket legend Bob Simpson, who has died aged 89.

The former Baggy Greens skipper’s passing, the cause of which is currently unknown, was announced early on Saturday morning.

The late Simpson was a pillar of Aussie cricket and, as such, received a slew of tributes from across the world.

A heartbreaking statement from Cricket Australia read: “RIP to a true cricket legend.

“A Test cricketer, captain, coach and national selector – Bob Simpson was a mighty figure in Australian cricket, giving everything to our game.

“Cricket Australia extends our thoughts and sympathies to Bob’s family and friends.”

Steve Waugh said in a heartfelt tribute: “No one gave more to Australian cricket than Bob Simpson – coach, player, commentator, writer, selector, mentor and journalist.

“He was quite simply the best cricket coach with an unparalleled knowledge of the game, together with an insatiable appetite for learning and imparting his wisdom.

“He made me a better player and he made Australian cricket great. RIP Simmo.”

Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, also paid tribute to the late Simpson: “Bob Simpson’s extraordinary service to Australian cricket spanned generations.

“As a player, captain and then era-defining coach, he set the highest of standards for himself and the champions he led.

“He will be long remembered by the game he loved. May he rest in peace.”

Cricket Australia Chairman Mark Baird said: “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.

“As a brilliant opening batter, incredible slips fielder and handy spin bowler, Bob was a mainstay of a very strong Australian team in the 1960s, and he became a leader across the game as Australian and New South Wales captain and as a coach.

“Bob’s decision to come out of retirement to successfully lead the Australian team during the advent of World Series Cricket in 1977 was a wonderful service to the game, and his coaching set the foundation for a golden era for Australian cricket.

“On behalf of Cricket Australia, I would like to express my warmest condolences to Bob’s family, friends, teammates and all those touched by his vast contribution to cricket.”

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