Greig will forever be remembered as one of England’s greatest cricketers and one of the cricketing world’s most respected commentators
Former England captains Sir Ian Botham and Nasser Hussain have become two of the latest cricketers to pay tribute to fellow compatriot Tony Greig, who died of a heart attack at the age of 66.
Greig, who was diagnosed with lung cancer last year, revolutionised the game when becoming England skipper in 1975 and stirred up a massive controversy after helping Australia media tycoon Kerry Packer launch the World Series Cricket (WSC) tournament.
Hussain noted that while Greig may have angered many by helping Packer with the WSC tournament, it was still a landmark moment in cricketing history that remains etched in the minds of a majority of people.
“It was huge,” Hussain told Sky Sports News. “It was an amateur game before, with players just playing for the love of the game. But because of Tony Greig and Kerry Packer and the World Series, suddenly the world realised that they had to start paying their cricketers.
“One-day cricket became much more dramatic, with the coloured clothing and the white balls, and another form of cricket was invented.
“He was very brave, he did take people on and wasn’t someone who would just go with the norm. He wasn’t establishment. He was a great England captain and he transformed the game. It is very sad news and very sudden news as well.”
Botham reminisced about the days when he first entered the England team, stating that Greig had been his first captain and described him as “an amazing guy” who was “full of energy” both on and off the field.
“He was my first ever captain for England,” Botham said. “I’m very sad and very emotional. He was flamboyant and extroverted, faster than light, and he made things happen. He was an amazing guy and so full of energy.
“He changed cricket for everybody as we know it now. The game suddenly leaped forward and players started to paid more substantial amounts. He revolutionised the game and it had to be done. The players of today have a lot to be thankful for in Tony and Kerry Packer.”
England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chief executive David Collier also paid his respects to Greig, and said: “Tony Greig was an extremely talented all-round cricketer and captain, he was a giant of a man who played a major role in the changing face of cricket during the 1970s. He will be fondly remembered for his informed commentaries, his embracing of innovation to enhance the game including day and night cricket, as well as his performances on the field of play.”
ECB chairman Giles Clarke added: “Tony Greig was a magnificent and fearless cricketer capable of changing games with ball or bat. He led England brilliantly in India and rejuvenated the side. He was a determined supporter of players’ rights in his later years.”
Current England wicketkeeper Matt Prior was saddened by the news and stated that the country had lost a true hero and cricketing icon.
Via his Twitter account, Prior said: “Can’t believe one of my heroes Tony Greig has passed away. One of the greatest voices in cricket and will be sorely missed.”
England pace bowler Stuart Broad, via his own Twitter account, simply wrote: “#RIPTonyGreig”.
Greig represented England in 58 Tests, 14 of which he was captain, and scored 3,599 runs, which included eight centuries at an average of 40.43.
He also picked up 141 wickets at an average of 32.20.