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Key Points

Sourav Ganguly fondly remembered Bob Simpson, calling him a "gentleman to the core." Simpson was instrumental in Australia's cricket resurgence, coaching legends like Warne and Ponting. His tenure included the historic 1987 World Cup win at Eden Gardens. Ganguly shared heartfelt memories of their time together in Lancashire.

Key Points: Sourav Ganguly Pays Tribute to Australia Legend Bob Simpson

  • Ganguly recalls 1999 World Cup and Lancashire stint with Simpson
  • Simpson coached Australia’s golden generation in the 1990s
  • Led Australia to 1987 World Cup victory at Eden Gardens
  • Played a key role in debuting legends like Warne and Ponting
2 min read

A gentleman to the core: Sourav Ganguly's tribute to Australia legend Bob Simpson

Sourav Ganguly remembers Bob Simpson as a "gentleman to the core" following the Australian legend's passing at 89.

"RIP Bob Simpson.. our memories of 1999 World Cup and my stint with you in Lancashire will always be in my heart and memories. A gentleman to the core. – Sourav Ganguly"

Kolkata, August 16

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly paid tribute to ex-Australia captain and coach Bob Simpson, who passed away at the age of 89 in Sydney on Saturday.

Simpson was a key figure in Australia's surge to the pinnacle of the cricketing world in the 1990s. Simpson took the full-time coaching role for the Baggy Greens when the Allan Border-led side was enduring a steep decline in fortunes. Australia was tottering in the middle of a winless run that stretched out for three years.

"RIP Bob Simpson .. our memories of 1999 World Cup and my stint with you in Lanchashire will always be in my heart and memories . A gentleman to the core," Ganguly said in a post on his official X account.

https://x.com/SGanguly99/status/1956598809816977483

The legendary cricketer played Tests for Australia from 1957 to 1978.

Under Simpson, Australia, in a bid to regenerate the nation's cricket, entrusted its faith in young blood and handed debuts to David Boon, Dean Jones, Steve Waugh, Craig McDermott, Merv Hughes and many more. During his stint with the selection panel in 1987, he played a fundamental role in identifying Australia's golden generation.

Mark Taylor, Ian Healy, Mark Waugh, Shane Warne, Justin Langer, Matthew Hayden, Damien Martyn, Glenn McGrath and Ricky Ponting were among the host of players that Simpson selected before he stepped down in 1996.

One of the biggest highlights of Simpson's coaching tenure was winning the 1987 Cricket World Cup hosted by India and Pakistan, defeating arch-rivals England in a closely-contested final by seven runs at Kolkata's Eden Gardens.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Emotional to read Dada's tribute. That 1999 World Cup was special for Indian fans too. Simpson's legacy lives on through all those legendary players he nurtured. Cricket has lost a great mentor today.
R
Rohit P
The 1987 World Cup win at Eden Gardens was iconic! Though I was too young to watch it live, my father still talks about that final. Simpson built the foundation for Australia's cricket dominance. Respect!
S
Sarah B
While we appreciate Simpson's contributions, I wish we had more focus on developing our own coaching talent in India. We've produced great players but need world-class coaches too. Just a thought.
V
Vikram M
That Australian team he built was something else yaar! Warne, McGrath, Waugh brothers - all came under his guidance. True visionary. Ganguly's words show how much impact he had globally.
K
Kavya N
Heartwarming to see Dada remembering his Lancashire days with Simpson. These cross-cultural cricket bonds are what make the sport so special. May his soul rest in peace 🌹

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