Dubai, April 10 (IANS): The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday offered its condolences to the family and friends of former Australia captain and broadcasting legend Richie Benaud, who passed away at the age of 84 following a prolonged illness.

“Today is a very sad day for cricket as it mourns the passing of one of its most beloved sons. On behalf of the ICC, I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Richie Benaud as well as everyone connected with Australia cricket," ICC chief executive David Richardson said.

“Richie was a true legend, charismatic but always the perfect sportsman and gentleman. He was also one of the most complete sportsman who dedicated his life to cricket. During his playing days, he was an outstanding all-rounder and inspirational captain. Following retirement, he turned journalist and broadcaster, and through his cricket intellect, knowledge and articulate presentation, became the voice of cricket."

Richardson added: “Richie was always engaging and knowledgeable about the game and although he may have been Australian by birth, he had a great passion for world cricket. The esteem in which he was held was reflected by his induction into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2009. Cricket will miss Richie Benaud but will remember him with fond memories.”

Benaud enjoyed a stellar international career and took 248 wickets and scored 2,201 runs in 63 Tests. He captain Australia in 28 Tests, winning 12 and losing four. In a first-class career, which spanned 16 years, the leg-spinning all-rounder scored 11,719 runs and took 945 wickets in 259 matches.