The Sport Australia Hall of Fame is deeply saddened by the passing of cricketing great Robert ‘Bob’ Simpson AO, who died on Friday, aged 89.

Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1985 as an Athlete Member, Simpson was one of Australia’s finest all-rounders – a prolific opening batsman, brilliant slip fielder, shrewd leg-spinner, captain, and later one of the game’s most influential coaches.

A career that spanned more than two decades, 62 Tests and 4,869 runs included the famous 311 against England at Old Trafford in 1964 – a knock that stamped him as one of the greats. His leadership was pivotal in a turbulent era, and his later coaching career saw him form a formidable partnership with fellow Hall of Fame Member Allan Border AO. Together they rebuilt and reshaped the Australian cricket team into a dominant world force, regaining the Ashes in 1989, lifting the 1987 World Cup, and laying the foundation for decades of success.

Chair of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, John Bertrand AO, reflected:
“Bob Simpson was a giant of the game. As a player, captain and coach, he left an indelible mark on Australian cricket. His partnership with Allan Border defined a generation and reignited belief in our national team. We salute his legacy and contribution, both on and off the field.”

Bob Simpson’s impact on cricket, in Australia and around the world, will live on through the players he guided and the countless fans he inspired.

Our deepest condolences are extended to his family, friends, and the cricket community.