Former Australia cricketer Gilmour passed away

Sydney, June 10 (IANS) Former Australian Test all-rounder Gary Gilmour passed away here Tuesday. He was 62.

Gilmour is survived by his wife Helen, daughter Brooke Drelincourt and sons Ben and Sam. Earlier this year, his son Clint died of brain cancer.

Gilmour passed away at Sydney's Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Tuesday due to ongoing health problems. 

Cricket Australia (CA) paid rich tribute to Gilmour, hailing his all-round abilities.

Australian Test great Greg Chappell said of Gilmour in the 1980s: "Nobody had more talent than that bloke - as much as Garry Sobers." 

"Gary was a captivating talent who had the rare ability to single-handedly turn a game. Anyone who witnessed Gary in full flight during the 1970s will remember fondly how he could influence matches with his all-round abilities," said CA chief executive officer James Sutherland. 

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Gary's family and friends. His memory will live on in Australian cricket," Sutherland said.

Gilmour introduced himself in the Test arena with a half-century and four wickets on debut against New Zealand in 1973-74 at Melbourne, and went on to represent his country in 15 Tests and five one-day internationals.

A left-arm swing bowling all-rounder, Gilmour took 54 Test wickets at 26.03 before his career was curtailed by a nagging foot injury. He also finished with 16 ODI career wickets at an incredible average of 10.31, including figures of 6-14 in the 1975 World Cup semi-final against England.

Gilmour also still holds the Australian Test record for the seventh wicket with Doug Walters, contributing 101 runs (which included 86 runs in boundaries) in a partnership of 217 against New Zealand in Christchurch in 1976-77.

Gilmour was born in Newcastle in 1951 and scored 122 in his maiden game for New South Wales in 1971-72. 

Australia coach Darren Lehmann offered condolences to the Gilmour family on behalf of the team.

"On behalf of the Australian cricket team, I take this opportunity to pass on our condolences to the Gilmour family following the passing of Gary earlier today. Gary was a decorated player for Australia and New South Wales and will certainly be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Gilmour family during this difficult time," Lehmann said.

Picture - theage.com.au