Andrew Symonds passes away in a car crash

Former Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds has died in a car crash at the age of 46 in Queensland on Saturday (May 14) night. 

Queensland Police in a statement said that they were investigating the accident. "Early information indicates, shortly after 11 pm the car was being driven on Hervey Range Road, near Alice River Bridge when it left the roadway and rolled.

"Emergency services attempted to revive the 46-year-old driver and sole occupant, however, he died of his injuries."

Cricket Australia have also issued a statement that says, "Australian cricket has lost another of its very best. Andrew was a generational talent who was instrumental in Australia's success at World Cups and as part of Queensland's rich cricket history.

"He was a cult figure to many who was treasured by his fans and friends. On behalf of Australian cricket, our deepest sympathies are with Andrew's family, teammates, and friends."

Known to be powerful hitter of the ball, Symonds has played 26 Tests, 198 ODIs and 14 T20Is for Australia, since making his debut in 1998. He was an integral part of Australia's triumphant World Cup campaigns in 2003 and 2007. 

In the 2003 edition, he took apart quality bowlers like Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Shoaib Akhtar to finish unbeaten on 143 off 125 after walking into bat at 86 for 4. However, he was the centre of attraction during his unbeaten 162-run knock in a controversy-filled Sydney Test against India in 2008, which helped his side retain the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

The T20 format emerged in the latter stages of his career, but he was bought by the Deccan Chargers for USD 1.35 million ahead of the inaugural edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008 and smashed a century in his third game of the tournament. He was the most expensive overseas purchase of that edition.

After retiring in 2012, he made frequent appearances in the commentary box during the Big Bish League (BBL).