Following the tragic news of the death of Australian all-rounder Andrew Symonds, the cricketing fraternity bid farewell to one of the most famous former stars. A host of his former Australian teammates and international stars took to social media to share their sympathies for the tragic loss of Andrew Symonds.
Former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist and fast bowler Jason Gillespie - who both played alongside Symonds at the 2003 World Cup - expressed their dismay at the news.
"This really hurts. Think of your most loyal, fun, loving friend who would do anything for you. That’s Roy," tweeted Adam Gilchrist.
"Horrendous news to wake up to. Utterly devastated. We are all gonna miss you mate," was the tweet by former star pacer Jason Gillespie.
Another former teammate of Symonds, Michael Bevan, also shared his condolences for Symonds, "Heartbreaking. Aussie cricket losing another hero. Stunned. Co-team members 2003 World Cup. Amazing talent. RIP SIMMO."
Former Australian captain Mark Taylor said it was 'another tragic day' for cricket. "Unfortunately, I've been here too often, this year, under these circumstances," he told the Nine Network. "I can't quite believe it, to be honest. Another tragic day for cricket. He was an entertainer with the bat when it came to cricket and as you say he was an imposing guy, he was a big lad."
Pakistan star Shoaib Akhtar was among the first international players to share his thoughts. "Devastated to hear about Andrew Symonds passing away in a car crash in Australia. We shared a great relationship on & off the field. Thoughts & prayers with the family," he said.
"Woke up to this shocking news! RIP legend! Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends," tweeted Angelo Mathews.
Former cricketing legend VVS Laxman also shared his shock at the devastating news on Twitter, "Shocking news to wake up to here in India. Rest in peace my dear friend. Such tragic news."
"Tragic news to hear of Andrew Symonds passing. Condolences to his family, friends and well wishers," were the words of former India spinner Anil Kumble.
Even Harbhajan Singh, who had an infamous spat with Symonds during India's tour to Australia in 2008, shared his condolences on Twitter, "Shocked to hear about the sudden demise of Andrew Symonds. Gone too soon. Heartfelt condolences to the family and friends. Prayers for the departed soul."
Legendary Indian opener Sachin Tendulkar joined in the condolences, saying, "Andrew Symond’s demise is shocking news for all of us to absorb. Not only was he a brilliant all-rounder, but also a live-wire on the field. I have fond memories of the time we spent together in Mumbai Indians. May his soul rest in peace, condolences to his family & friends."
Another former Mumbai Indians (MI) teammate Yuzbendra Chahal also joined in the condolences, "Today I have lost my closest man. You were just not a colleague. My family, my man. My symonds uncle I will miss you terribly. RIP."
