The sudden death of former Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds in a car crash in May left the cricket fraternity in shock and disbelief.
A public memorial service was held in a stadium in Townsville last month with former Australian cricketers paying tribute to the legendary cricketer. Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson lauded Symonds’ impact on the team while calling him "Viv Richards reincarnated".
Symonds was an important part of the Australian team that won the ICC World Cup in 2003 and 2007. The right-handed batter and right-arm bowler was an integral member of the Australian team across all three formats.
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"You felt bulletproof when you played in the same team as Andrew Symonds. Having him at point and just knowing he always had your back no matter what. And to bat with him was something very special. It is shattering to think he is not with us anymore. I look back at old footage I have seen over the last couple of weeks and (shaking head) he was so good, just so incredibly good. And to go with it one of the best teammates you could ever have," Watson said on the ICC Review.
"His poor two kids, such beautiful kids and they adored their dad as well. We need to make sure we rally around his family as much as we can, as I know he would do that for us. He was very much Viv Richards reincarnated in the way he played. Even before I played against him you always heard about this big, powerful, six-hitting batter who could do everything and who was an amazing athlete," added Watson.
Further speaking of the late cricketer, Watson said: "His ability to bowl spin and medium pace, he was one of the best fielders to ever play. His all-around ability was something we haven't seen much of and won't see much of again."
Symonds was known for his electrifying fielding skills and was a nightmare for the batters. The Australian icon represented Queensland for 17 seasons in domestic cricket. He also represented Gloucestershire, Kent, Lancashire, and Surrey in County cricket.
He also played for Deccan Chargers and Mumbai Indians in IPL, winning the tournament in 2009 with Chargers.
(ICC inputs)
