Former Australian and Victorian cricketer Keith Stackpole has died aged 84 from a suspected heart attack.
He is survived by wife Pat and children Peter, Tony and Angela.
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Stackpole scored 2807 runs at 37.42 across 43 Tests from 1966-1974, including seven centuries and a high score of 207. He was the leading run-scorer during the 1972 Ashes campaign in England with 485 runs at 53.88, named one of Wisden’s Cricketers of the Year in 1973.
The opening batter also claimed 15 Test wickets with his leg spin, playing six ODIs for Australia.
Following his retirement, Stackpole was awarded an MBE for services to cricket in 1974, also serving as a commentator for Nine, Seven and the ABC. He mentored the likes of Brad Hodge and the late Dean Jones.
“Keith was one of the great contributors to the game of cricket and his legacy will live long into the future,” Cricket Australia Chair Mike Baird said in a statement.
“Not only was he an outstanding player for Australia and Victoria, his work in the media, radio and TV commentary and as a mentor to many players who followed in his footsteps demonstrated his enduring passion and influence in the game.
“He will be sadly missed and his wife Pat and their family and many friends are in our thoughts.”
Cricket Victoria Chair Ross Hepburn said in a statement: “We extend our condolences to Keith’s family, friends and team mates. Keith was a giant of the game — a brilliant cricketer, a passionate Victorian, and a proud Australian. His courage at the crease and his deep understanding of the game made him one of the most respected figures of his time.
“Keith was a true statesman of Victorian cricket. He played the game with great spirit and remained a devoted ambassador for cricket long after his playing days were over. His legacy will endure not only in the record books, but in the hearts of all Victorian cricket lovers.”
Former Australian teammate Doug Walters told News Corp: “Stacky was a great team man.
“He was also great to watch. The first ball could go out of the ground. He had a particularly good hook shot. He had shots everywhere. He will be missed.’’
