The world of cricket is once again in mourning after the death of former Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds in a car crash at the age of 46.
The tragic news of the death of the ex-Aussie international, who was born in Birmingham before moving Down Under and starring in 26 Tests, 198 ODIs and 14 T20s, comes only two months after the sudden passing of his friend, Shane Warne.
Polce in Queensland confirmed that they are investigating a single-vehicle accident that occurred at 11pm local time on Saturday night.
Queensland Police said: “Police are investigating a single-vehicle crash in Hervey Range, around 50 kilometres from Townsville, that's taken the life of a 46-year-old man.
“Early information indicates, shortly after 11pm the car was being driven on Hervey Range Road, near Alice River Bridge when it left the roadway and rolled.
“Emergency services attempted to revive the 46-year-old driver and sole occupant, however, he died of his injuries. The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating."
Symonds, who had spells in county cricket with Kent, Gloucestershire, Lancashire and Surrey, was known especially for his ferocious hitting in the middle order and compiled eight centuries during his career, including a score of 156 in the Boxing Day Ashes Test against England in 2006.
A Cricket Australia statement read: “We are shocked and saddened by the loss of the loveable Queenslander, who has tragically passed away at the age of 46.”
Former international team-mates Andrew Gilchrist, Michael Clarke, Jason Gillespie and Darren Lehmann were among many to pay tribute to Symonds.
Ex-wicketkeeper Gilchrist tweeted: “This really hurts. Think of your most loyal, fun, loving friend who would do anything for you. That’s Roy.”
Lehmann wrote on Twitter: “Look after yourself up there great man, I am (heartbroken emoji), loved him so much and our thoughts are with the family at this time.”
West Indies great Brian Lara was among many from the cricketing world to share their sadness at the news.
The 53-year-old wrote: “We exchanged messages just hours ago... what's really going on? Baffled and heartbroken! How could we lose another iconic figure in our sport so soon RIP Roy Condolences to Andrew's family and close friends.”
India great Sachin Tendulkar wrote on Twitter: “Andrew Symond's demise is shocking news for all of us to absorb. Not only was he a brilliant all-rounder, but also a live-wire on the field.
“I have fond memories of the time we spent together in Mumbai Indians. May his soul rest in peace, condolences to his family & friends.”
Former Sri Lanka captain Mahele Jayawardene paid tribute to a “great competitor who was so much fun off the field”, while ex-Pakistan skipper Mohammad Hafeez and former England captain Michael Vaughan also posted messages in his memory.
