Robert Baddeley "Bob" Simpson, a giant of Australian cricket, has passed away at the age of 89. Simpson, who was a former Australian captain and coach, died in Sydney. He was an influential figure in the sport for over four decades as a player, captain, coach, lawmaker, referee, and commentator.

Born on February 3, 1936, Simpson made his Test debut for Australia in 1957 against South Africa. He played 62 Test matches, amassing 4,869 runs at an average of 46.81, including 10 centuries and 27 half-centuries. As a leg-spin bowler, he also claimed 71 wickets. Simpson captained Australia in 39 Tests, securing 12 wins. He was also an exceptional fielder, holding a then-record of 110 catches in his Test career. In 1964, Simpson was named Wisden Cricketer of the Year.

Simpson retired from Test cricket in 1968 but made a remarkable comeback in 1977 at the age of 41 to captain Australia again during the World Series Cricket era. This return was considered a wonderful service to the game.

After retiring as a player, Simpson became Australia's first full-time coach in 1986, a position he held until 1996. He is credited with transforming the Australian team from a struggling side to a dominant force in world cricket. Under his guidance, Australia won the 1987 World Cup, regained the Ashes in England in 1989, and defeated the West Indies in their home ground in 1995 to win the Frank Worrell Trophy.

Simpson's contributions to cricket were widely recognized. He was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 1985, the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame in 2006, and the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2013. He was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 1978, which was later upgraded to Officer (AO) in 2007.

Many have paid tribute to Simpson, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who acknowledged Simpson's extraordinary service to Australian cricket across generations as a player, captain, and coach. Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird described Simpson as one of the greats of Australian cricket and acknowledged his pivotal role in laying the foundation for a golden era for Australian cricket.

The Australian men's team will honor Simpson with a moment of silence before their ODI against South Africa on Saturday. They will also wear black armbands as a sign of respect.