Andrew Symonds and Michael Clarke pose for a photo after the Australian nets session at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 25, 2006. Photo / Getty Images
Andrew Symonds and Michael Clarke pose for a photo after the Australian nets session at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 25, 2006. Photo / Getty Images
The local and international cricket community is in shock over the sudden death of former Australian star Andrew Symonds on Saturday night.
The 46-year-old's family confirmed in a statement the popular all-rounder was killed in a single-car accident outside Townsville, where he lived. Paramedics at the scene tried to savehim but were unable to.
Players, former teammates and fans have taken to social media to share their devastation at the tragic news, which comes just two months after the deaths of fellow Aussie cricket greats Shane Warne and Rod Marsh.
Michael Clarke, who was incredibly close with Symonds when he came into the Australian team before the pair fell out and their relationship broke down, took to Instagram to say he was "devastated".
Clarke posted a broken heart emoji over a photo of him and Symonds carrying Shane Warne on their shoulders after the 2006-2007 Ashes series.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk shared her "deep condolences" with the star's family, remembering him as "an outstanding player - dynamic, entertaining and skilful - who made an unforgettable contribution to Queensland and Australian cricket".
Andrew Symonds and Michael Clarke pose for a photo after the Australian nets session at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 25, 2006. Photo / Getty Images
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison tweeted: "Just awful to hear the news of the passing of Andrew Symonds. Roy was an incredible talent and a great character of Australian sport. Loved by his teammates and fans alike, he will be sorely missed by many. My condolences to his family, friends and the cricket community."
Think of your most loyal, fun, loving friend who would do anything for you. That’s Roy. 💔😞
If Roy shook your hand you had his word, that’s the sort of bloke he was and that's why I always wanted him on my team. An extraordinary player and even better human being. Can’t believe he’s gone. Thoughts are with his family at this time. pic.twitter.com/7r7FiK1CzK
Fans also expressed their shock at the news, describing him as "one of the most entertaining one-day cricketers I had the pleasure to watch during my childhood and into my teenage years".
Others remembered the iconic moment that Symonds tackled a streaker on the pitch, describing it as "the greatest moment in the history of Australian cricket".
Andrew Symonds was one of the most entertaining one-day cricketers I had the pleasure to watch during my childhood and into my teenage years.
Probably the batsman who would best fit the definition of 'fearless' at the crease.
Also should mention, as one of the few POCs to wear the baggy green in my lifetime, he was an enormous influence on me as a young cricket fan. He looked different, played different and didn’t care. https://t.co/8diJOZQzNE