Cricket world mourns Richie Benaud's death

He passed away at the age of 84 after battling against skin cancer.

Indian batting icon Sachin Tendulkar mourned his death and tweeted: "#RIPRichie Wonderful personality who was always warm and encouraging. Had great insights on the game fondly remember our discussion on the art of leg spin along with Official @ShaneWarne in Sharjah. Last spoke to him late last year."

He said: " Was not well but full of enthusiasm. Great loss to the world of cricket. Heartfelt condolences to Richie's family and friends."

Former Australian spinner Shane Warne said: "Dear Richie,
I've known you & Daphne for close to 30 years & to everyone you were a legend on all."

Former Indian captain Anil Kumble posted: "RIP Richie Benaud.His values cut across all generations & the best example in cricket to everyone associated with it. Always had a kind Word to every cricketer. Above all a great human being. Had a special place for every leg spinner. Very sad day for cricket!"

Former Pakistan skipper Imran Khan said: "Saddened by the death of Richie Benaud, one of the greatest cricketing brains."

Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara tweeted: "So sad to hear about the passing of Richie Benaud. The great voice of cricket is no more. He defined an era with conviction and sincerity."

Australian all-rounder Shane Watson said: "Respected and looked up to by all, you will be sorely missed #Legend Vale Richie Benaud #RIPRichie ."

Pakistan spinner Saeed Ajmal tweeted: "Richie Benaud a legend,my one of the favourite commentator has died today,RIP you were a true gentleman & Crickter. #richiebenaud@CricketAus."

Former England wicket-keeper Alec Stewart posted: "The world has lost a very special man but heaven has gained a true legend. Richie Benaud RIP. #morningeveryone."

Ex-English captain MichaelVaughan tweeted: "Wherever you are in the World today we must pay tribute to this great man.. #2.22pm #RichieTime #RIPRichie."

Former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee said: "A sad day to hear about the loss of Richie Benaud #RIP."

New Zealand cricketer Scott Styris tweeted: "Very sad to hear of the passing of the great Richie Benaud. We all grew up listening to his wisdom and advice. #RIP."

BCCI Secretary Anurag Thakur mourned the death of the cricketer and said in a statement: " The Board of Control for Cricket in India extends its condolences to the family and friends of Richie Benaud, one of the legends of the game, who passed away today."

"This is a big loss to all the fans of the game across the world and Australia in particular, and on behalf of the BCCI and the Indian cricketing fraternity, I pray to God to rest his soul in peace," he said.