Former Australian wicketkeeper Rodney Marsh has passed away on Friday at the age of 74. Marsh was famously known for his partnership with fast bowler Dennis Lillee. The duo holds the world record for most dismissals (95) with a bowler-wicketkeeper combo.
Marsh suffered a heart attack at a charity event last week and since then he had been admitted to the hospital. He had been in an induced coma and passed away peacefully, confirmed his family.
Rod Marsh played 96 Tests for Australia
“This is a tremendously sad day for Australian cricket and for all those who loved and admired Rod Marsh. Rod will be forever remembered for the way he played the game and the pleasure he brought crowds as a member of some great Australian teams. ‘Caught Marsh, bowled Lillee’ has iconic status in our game,” Cricket Australia chairman Dr Lachlan Henderson said in an official statement.
“Rod also made an enormous contribution to the game by identifying, coaching and mentoring many future stars in his various roles as coach and director at cricket academies in Australia and other cricket playing nations. Our thoughts are with Rod’s wife Ros, his sons Paul, Dan and Jamie and the extended Marsh family, his many friends and teammates with whom he created so many special memories,” he added.
Making his debut in 1970, he represented Australia in 96 Test matches and 92 ODIs. In his Test career, he caused 355 dismissals behind the stumps which was a World record then. With the bat, he also contributed with 3 hundreds and 16 fifties. After retiring from international cricket in 1984, he also served as a national selector for England. His career was disrupted with 2 years in World Series Cricket.
Sad to hear the news that Rod Marsh has passed. He was a legend of our great game & an inspiration to so many young boys & girls. Rod cared deeply about cricket & gave so much-especially to Australia & England players. Sending lots & lots of love to Ros & the family. RIP mate❤️
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) March 4, 2022
Many former players paid tributes for the legendary cricketer.
Former Australia leg spinner Shane Warne tweeted, “Sad to hear the news that Rod Marsh has passed. He was a legend of our great game & an inspiration to so many young boys & girls. Rod cared deeply about cricket & gave so much-especially to Australia & England players. Sending lots & lots of love to Ros & the family. RIP mate”