Vale Richie Benaud
Australiansand cricket lovers everywhere will be sad to hear of the news that legendary cricket icon Richie Benaud has passed away at the age of 84.
Benaud featured in five marvellous spots for Tourism Australia, Milo, Smoothex, Gillette and was most recently named the new Lambassador for MLA and starred in the spot earlier this year.
Channel Nine Australia’s Chief Executive David Gyngell released the following statement on the passing of Richie Benaud:
Richie Benaud’s passing has robbed us not only of a national treasure, but a lovely man.
Richie earned the profound and lasting respect of everyone across the world of cricket and beyond – first as an outstanding player and captain, then as an incomparable commentator, and through it all as a wonderful human being.
Richie is a true legend not only to all the people who knew him, but to the many millions who didn’t. Which speaks volumes. He’s been part of the Australian psyche.
Since way back in 1977 Richie has been a much loved member of the Nine family. More than that, he sat at the head of our table. We shall miss him dearly, but we’ll forever treasure his indelible memory and all the marvellous values for which he stood.
Cricket is very much the richer for Richie Benaud’s lifelong engagement. And so are we all. Our deepest sympathies go to Daphne and Richie’s family.