Richie Benaud

[Bert]

What a bloke. Sadly passed away. RIP.

[Alf Bentley]

His playing career was before even my time, but he was a truly outstanding commentator on test cricket.

 

One comment in the tribute below stands out for me:

"When asked to sum up his commentary style, he said his mantra was: 'If you can add to what's on the screen then do it, otherwise shut up'."

 

His long silences let the cricket speak for itself, and his pithy phrases and concise analysis added to it brilliantly. A top performer.

 

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/cricket/15903158

[Voll Blau]

First thing I heard this morning when my alarm went off. Very sad, but you absolutely have to admire is lucidity and ability to do such a stunning job (OK, not as regularly in the past few years) into very old age. Rest in peace.

[Crinklyfox]

When I first listened to and watched test cricket he was the only Aussie commentator. He was always very even-handed in his remarks and knowledgeable about the game. A true professional on the pitch and in the commentary box, he was the last of my 'golden generation' of commentators which included Arlott and Johnston. He has set the standard for others to follow and will be missed.

[cambridgefox]

Legend.Sad day for cricket for all playing nations.

[Corky]

RIP Richie, true commentary great who knew when to speak and what to say. Got a standing ovation from The Oval on his last commentary stint in England. Never heard a bad word said about him.

 

Cricket has lost a wonderful man and an icon.

[Haydos]

The voice of cricket commentary, very sad to hear the news.

[Darkon84]

This was the first thing I heard when my alarm went off this morning. Not nice news to wake up to. Always seemed a genuinely likeable guy and his voice will never be forgotten by any cricket fan.

Probably the only man to bring Australia and England totally together.

 

RIP Richie.

[RizLCFC]

Absolute legend, thorough professional and real gentleman, commentary was second to none, grew up listening to the great man.

[Renart]

Fond memories of this man's voice when I was growing up. Sad day.

[marko]

A seemingly fitting quote from the man himself during his last commentary stint in England on day 5 at the Oval 2005.

 

“We’ve had all sorts of music here today, Land of Hope and Glory, the national anthem – Jerusalem before we started. I always carry a lot of music around with me and one of the great ones for me is Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman, singing that duet, that wonderful duet, Time To Say Goodbye. And that’s what it is as far as I’m concerned – time to say goodbye. And you can add to that – thank you for having me. It’s been absolutely marvellous. For 42 years I’ve loved every moment of it. And it’s been a privilege to go into everyone’s living room throughout that time. What’s even better is that it’s been a great deal of fun.”