The Australian Prime Minister has reportedly offered a state funeral to the family of former Australia captain, journalist and legendary broadcaster Richie Benaud, who passed away on Friday aged 84.
The renowned commentator passed away, having had treatment for skin cancer. He was branded as the 'voice of cricket' by Prime Minister Tony Abbott.
Abbott said that there would be very few Australians who have not passed a summer in the company of Benaud, adding that the late commentator's voice was even more present than the chirping of the cicadas in their suburbs and towns and that voice, tragically, is now still, News.com.au reported.
The Prime Minister also said that Benaud had been a remarkable cricketer, having led Australia in 28 Tests and never lost a series. Benaud was also the first cricketer to achieve a remarkable double - 2000 Test runs and 200 Test wickets.
Abbott said that this is the greatest loss for cricket since the loss of Don Bradman and for that reason he is pleased to have offered the Benaud family a state funeral.
