There was no grandstanding, and no revelling in the moment. Richie Benaud’s final modest few moments of his distinguished commentary career in England were like the man himself: class personified.
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Commenting on the final Test of the 2005 Ashes series, and with banners dotted around the Oval saying goodbye to the world’s favourite Australia, he uttered: “It’s time to say goodbye. Thank you for having me, it’s been absolutely marvellous for 42 years.
“I’ve loved every moment of it and it’s been a privilege to go into everyone’s living room and, what’s even better, it’s been a great deal of fun.”
As if by magic, Kevin Pietersen was removed by Glenn McGrath the very next instance, bringing a close to his match-winning 158 and earning a standing ovation from the Oval crowd.
Ever the professional, Benaud summarised the situation before signing off with a simple: “we’ve got our two new men in the commentary box – Mark Nicholas and Tony Greig.”
Richie Benaud’s portrait and Australian team blazer stand overlooking the famous pitch at Lord’s. #RIPRichie #9News pic.twitter.com/7tdVt0DM5S
— Nine News Adelaide (@9NewsAdel) April 11, 2015
And that was that. As iconic a moment as it was, it was just another example of his understated brilliance which permeated throughout his entire career.
Most of us never had the pleasure of meeting him. However, he was always there with us in our front rooms when we switched on to watch a Test match. The wise man you always felt was your friend and loyal cricket companion.
The tag of cricket’s own Yoda as spot on as one of his observations on the state of the game.
Always listenable and always informative. As yesterday’s tributes only emphasised, anyone who was graced by his presence could only be charmed by the man.
He spoke with authority, diligence, purpose, a subtle sense of humour and dry wit, wisdom and, most of all, warmth.
Richie Benaud’s last English commentary was at the Oval and the @Oval_station has remembered him today. https://t.co/W3wJokWG9w
— PA Sport (@pasport) April 11, 2015
Without wanting to take anything away from his Australian-ness, he transcended borders. Not so much a national treasure, but more an international one.
While most cricket fans aged 50 and below will only know him via his media work – and in many ways it’s testament to his brilliance behind the microphone – he was also some player.
Before Shane Warne became the world’s greatest leg spinner, it was Benaud who wrote the rulebook on the art. Amid his successful time as a bowling all-rounder in returning Australia to the apex of world cricket, he was pioneer of wrist spin.
Like a forgotten band or artist whose work was never fully understood until well past their heyday, it took a peroxide blonde larrikin to help make the next generation fully aware of Benaud’s brilliance and influence.
Richie Benaud. A great innings over. Through war and peace he lived the highest of values. Great example to sportsmen and women today
— Jeff Kennett (@jeff_kennett) April 11, 2015
Fitting also, the man himself was there to enjoy and analyse every moment of Warne’s stellar career.
Listening to Benaud talking about the development of Warne, there was no frustration or display of a bruised ego at someone stealing his thunder, just pride in the knowledge he had imparted.
A player, student and lover of the game, Benaud helped millions across the globe appreciate and understand cricket better, giving them to opportunity to pass it on.
So, while it may be time to say goodbye, Benaud’s gift to the game will be eternal.
