Former Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds, who passed away in a car crash back in May, was given a heartfelt tribute during the 1st ODI between Australia and Zimbabwe in Townsville. His kids Chloe and Billy walked out alongside Steve Smith and Aaron Finch in the pre-match ceremony.
Both the kids were present in the Australian dugout during the 1st innings and were assisting the men in action. They even ran in to provide drinks to the on-field players. During the innings break, his mother Barbara and sister Louise walked to the pitch to lay his baggy green, his bat, his Akubra hat, a fishing rod and a crab pot at the wickets. Symonds’ two dogs, Buzz and Woody, also walked to the centre.
The 46-year-old retired from international cricket back in 2012 after representing Australia in 26 Tests, 198 ODIs and 14 T20Is. Since then, he was found in the commentary box and some charity matches often. Affectionately called as “Roy” by his teammates, he was a pivotal cog in the Aussie unit and one of the first-generation stars of T20 cricket.
Australian captain Aaron Finch and head coach Andrew McDonald, who both spent time with Symonds back in the day, spoke highly of the cricketer and termed him a “Box office cricketer” who didn’t just entertain but also won the respect of fans and teammates during his time. It is also expected that the grandstand at the Riverway stadium will be named after him in due course of time.
This unforeseen incident added to the misery for the Australian cricket fraternity, who were already mourning the passing of two former legends in Rodney Marsh and Shane Warne. The best wishes will continue to flow in for these cricketers and their families in what has been an emotionally challenging year for the country, and the upcoming T20 World Cup, which will be held Down Under, could stage some amazing tributes.
