Australian cricket legend Andrew Symonds once left his fellow commentators in stitches when showing off a brilliant Geoffrey Boycott impression. Symonds tragically passed away on Sunda y after being involved in a single car accident in Hervey Range.
Unsurprisingly the tributes have poured in for the Aussie star, who scored six centuries and 30 half-centuries in 50-over international cricket across a stellar 11-year ODI career. Symonds’ impact on the game was clear to see within the tributes, from his efforts both on and off the pitch.
As well as excelling as a player, the 46-year-old often appeared as a commentator following his retirement, and proved just as talented with a microphone as he was with a bat and ball.
One piece of commentary work in particular that has lived long in the memory of cricket fans, is Symonds’ remarkable impression of England legend, and renowned commentator Boycott. Whilst commentating on a 2017 Big Bash League clash between the Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Stars, the Aussie left his fellow commentators, and those at home in stitches.
With his best Yorkshire accent - sounding impressively like Boycott - he said: “We’re back at the WACA and Scorchers are in real bother.” Following his comment the laughter from the rest of his punditry team could be heard breaking out from the commentary box.
Carrying on his act, Symonds said: “Gannon’s going to ball his second over. They’ve been slogging the Scorchers tonight, ridiculous at times. Bang, crash into the leg side for four runs.” Fellow commentator Adam Gilchrist clearly enjoyed the impression and joined in on the joke.
Laughing, Gilchrist said: “Yes, well called Geoffrey Boycott and the fellow Yorkshireman Tim Bresnan climbs into his work.” Five years on Gilchrist has paid a heartbreaking tribute to his former teammate, colleague and friend, revealing that he was ‘stunned’.
The 50-year-old told SEN : “Simply stunned, I can’t believe we’re in this space again the cricketing world. Anyone that had anything to do with ‘Symo’ knew exactly what he was like. He was one of the good guys, a real heart and soul type of guy that really made you happy - he just lit up the room wherever he was.”
In a police statement per Cricket Australia, it was confirmed that the emergency services attempted to rescue Symonds but the 46-year-old died of his injuries. The statement read: “Early information indicates, shortly after 11pm the car was being driven on Hervey Range Road, near Alice River Bridge when it left the roadway and rolled. Emergency services attempted to revive the 46-year-old driver and sole occupant, however, he died of his injuries. The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating."
