Tributes have begun to flow for Australian cricket legend Rod Marsh after his tragic passing on Friday.
Marsh, who represented Australia in 96 Test matches and 92 ODIs between 1970 and 1984 and formed an ixjmtzywconic on-field partnership with fast bowling great Dennis Lillee, died in Adelaide after suffering a heart attack in Bundaberg last week.
The 74-year-old left an indelible mark on the game as first a player and then his cricket academy helped nurture dozens of Test players before he also served time as an Australian selector.
His 95 catches off Lillee remains a record for the most dismissals between a fielder and bowler.
A statement issued by Marsh’s son Paul on behalf of the family said he had been an “incredible husband, father and grandfather and we have been so fortunate to have him on our lives”.
Current and former players led the tributes on social media, with Australian great Adam Gilchrist “shattered” at the death of his hero.
“Shocked, I’m absolutely shattered,” Gilchrist said on SEN.
“I can’t quite believe it, I just thought he was invincible.
“I still can’t believe that he was in my group of friends, in my friendship circle. I can’t believe it, he seemed unreal, one of those guys that was on TV, they just didn’t seem like they were real people, like superheroes.
“It’s going to be an emotional time and a rollercoaster as we reflect on what he meant and think about his family, Ros, Jamie, Paul, Dan and the extended family.
Mark Waugh called Marsh an “absolute icon”.
“So incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Rod (Bacchus) Marsh an absolute icon of Aust cricket,” Waugh posted on Twitter.
“Had the pleasure of working with Rod for a number of years as a selector and you wouldn’t meet a more honest, down to earth, kind hearted person.”
Women’s star Alyssa Healy labelling it a “sad day”, while former Test keeper Peter Nevill called Marsh “generous and kind”.
Marsh’s death came as Australia prepares for a historic first Test in Pakistan since 1998.
Captain Pat Cummins said it had been “really tough” for some of the players who were close to the cricket legend.
“Quite a few players and staff members have had really good relationships with Rod in the past,” Cummins said.
“It’s really tough. It’s certainly been a conversation point over here. We’re all rallying around him.”
Paul Marsh on Sunday said his family had been “overwhelmed” by the outpouring of concern for his father who will live on forever in the hearts and minds of Australian sports fans.
