Bob Simpson Passes Away at 89 – Legendary Australia Captain Who Retired Against India and Made Comeback Against India

Sydney: Former Australia captain and one of the most respected figures in world cricket, Bob Simpson, passed away on Saturday at the age of 89.

Simpson first retired in 1968 after playing his last Test against India, but nearly a decade later, amid the turmoil of Kerry Packer’s World Series Cricket, he was recalled. In 1977, at the age of 41, he came out of retirement – and fittingly, his comeback Test too was against India. Leading the side, he played a pivotal role in Australia’s 3–2 series win against Bishan Singh Bedi’s men. Earlier in 1968, his final pre-retirement series, Australia under Simpson had defeated Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi’s India 4–0.

A fine batsman and accomplished leg-break googly bowler, Simpson was more than just a cricketer. Over his long association with the game, he served as player, captain, selector, coach, match referee, and commentator.

A career of milestones

Simpson debuted in 1957 but had to wait until 1964 for his maiden century. He made it memorable – scoring a monumental 311 against England at Old Trafford. Opening with Bill Lawry, he built one of Australia’s most successful partnerships, including a world-record 382-run opening stand against West Indies in 1965 – still the highest for an opening pair in Tests.

In his career spanning 62 Tests (1957–1978), Simpson scored 4,869 runs with 10 centuries – all as captain – and 27 half-centuries. He also claimed 71 wickets with his leg-spin and pouched 110 catches, most at slip. In first-class cricket, he amassed over 21,000 runs with 60 centuries, along with 349 wickets and 383 catches.

Guiding Australia to a golden era

Simpson’s impact extended well beyond his playing days. In 1986, when Australian cricket was struggling, he was brought back as coach and selector. His disciplined methods transformed the side. Under his guidance, Allan Border’s Australia won their first-ever World Cup in 1987, and went on to dominate world cricket, including Ashes triumphs. The Simpson era nurtured future greats such as Steve Waugh, Shane Warne, Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden, Glenn McGrath, and many more. From the crease to the coaching bench, Bob Simpson’s imprint on Australian cricket remains indelible.