New Zealand Cricket is saddened to hear of the news of the passing of Richie Benaud, one of the game’s great personalities.
New Zealand Cricket Chief Executive David White said Mr Benaud had left a lasting and significant mark on world cricket.
“Richie will be remembered as a true legend of Australian Cricket, and a great ambassador for the game in general,” said Mr White.
“As an undefeated captain of Australia; a talented all-rounder, and as a great commentator - there was only one Richie Benaud.
“Today, NZC joins the cricketing world in mourning the passing of Mr Benaud, and in reflecting on the life of a man who lived a life less ordinary.”
Mr Benaud, who played 64 Tests for his country, was an all-rounder who combined leg spin bowling with aggressive lower-order batting.
Alongside fellow bowling all-rounder Alan Davidson, Mr Benaud helped restore Australia to the top of world cricket in the late 1950s and early 1960s after a slump in the early 1950s.
Mr Benaud was the first player to score 2000 Test runs and take 200 Test wickets but it was as a captain that he earned the greatest accolades.
From 1958, when he became Australia’s Test captain, he never lost a series in 28 Tests until his retirement in 1964.
After retiring, Mr Benaud became a commentary icon for the game, firstly with the BBC in England and later in his native Australia.
"Cricket has lost a great supporter," said Mr White. "Our thoughts at this time are with Mr Benaud's family and close friends."
Mr Benaud was 84.
