Two-time World Cup champion and Test hero, Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds dies in car crash on Saturday, and the cricket world is mourning his death.
The 46-year-old was involved in a single-vehicle accident at Hervey Range, Queensland, around 50 kilometres from Townsville.
Symonds’ death comes just two months after the death of Shane Warne, a former teammate and leg-spin legend.
Former Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds dies in car crash, according to Cricket Australia. Police confirmed an investigation into the accident overnight, while former teammates and opponents such as Adam Gilchrist and Michael Vaughan offered respect.
Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds dies in car crash : Investigation underway
“Police are investigating a single-vehicle crash in Hervey Range, roughly 50 kilometres from Townsville, that has claimed the life of a 46-year-old male,” a Queensland Police statement said. According to preliminary information, the car was being driven on Hervey Range Road near Alice River Bridge just after 11 p.m. when it left the road and rolled.
“Emergency services tried to resuscitate the 46-year-old driver and sole occupant, but he died as a result of his injuries. The Forensic Crash Unit is looking into it.”
Former Australian Cricket and friend Adam Gilchrist shared his thoughts on Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds dies in car crash over Twitter.
Symonds, affectionately known as “Roy”, played 26 Tests and 212 limited-overs internationals for his country and was noted especially for his ferocious hitting in the middle order.
Former wicketkeeper Gilchrist tweeted crying and heartbreak emojis followed by the simple message: “This really hurts. #roy #rip”. Ex-England captain Vaughan wrote: “Simmo .. This doesn’t feel real .. #RIP.” on the news of Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds dies in car crash.
Symonds, a brilliant all-rounder, played a key role in Australia’s World Cup victories in 2003 and 2007, both with bat and ball and on the field. His 143 in Australia’s first game against Pakistan in 2003, as well as a crucial 91 in the semi-final against Sri Lanka, proclaimed his talent to the cricket world.
He was a fan favourite in the short-form of the game, having appeared in 198 one-day internationals, scoring 5088 runs and collecting 133 wickets.
Symonds played 26 Tests for Australia, accumulating 1462 runs at 40.61 and taking 24 wickets with his tricky off-spin and medium pace bowling.
He was also known for his ability to turn a match in an instant from the inner ring, thanks to his ability to make stunning run-outs and catches at crucial periods.
“Cricket in Australia has lost another of its best players, “Lachlan Henderson, the chair of Cricket Australia, stated on the shocking news of Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds dies in car crash.” Andrew was a once-in-a-generation talent who contributed to Australia’s World Cup win as well as Queensland’s rich cricket legacy.
“To many, he was a cult character who was cherished by his admirers and friends. Andrew’s family, teammates, and friends have our heartfelt condolences on behalf of Australian cricket.”
Laura Symonds and their children Chloe and Billy survive him.