Mumbai, April 10 (IANS): The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday extended its condolences to the family and friends of former Australia captain and legendary commentator Richie Benaud, who passed away in Sydney on Thursday night following a prolonged battle against skin cancer.

"Renowned as one of the greatest leg-spinners and an astute captain to have led Australia, Benaud was a fine example of a highly competitive sportsman who carried himself with dignity and grace, on-and-off the field," BCCI secretary Anurag Thakur said.

"Indian cricket remembers his exploits on Australia’s first tour of India in 1956-57, which was dominated by spinners, and Benaud emerged as a clear winner, claiming 23 wickets in three Tests. He continued his mesmerising spells on the tour to India in 1959-60, leaving an indelible impression of his abilities in the land of spin bowling."

Post-retirement, he brought forth the nuances of the game to fans across the world as a columnist and broadcaster whose opinions were highly regarded.

"This is a big loss to all the fans of the game across the world and Australia in particular, and on behalf of the BCCI and the Indian cricketing fraternity, I pray to God to rest his soul in peace," Thakur added.