Former Australia star dies

FORMER Australia batsman Dean Jones has died at the age of 59.

Jones was in Mumbai as part of Star Sports’ coverage of the Indian Premier League.

As a player Jones made 52 Test appearances but was best known for his innovative approach to one-day cricket, winning 164 caps in a decade of international service. He made 18 centuries for Australia, including a memorable double hundred against India in a tied Test in Madras.

He went on to captain Derbyshire, turned out for Durham in their maiden season as a firstclass county in 1992 and was a sought-after analyst and commentator in retirement.

Derbyshire confirmed the news yesterday, tweeting: “The club is deeply saddened to learn of the sudden death of former captain, Dean Jones. This is a tragic loss for the game and our thoughts are with Dean’s family.”

The cricket world reacted with shock and sadness, with Australia head coach Justin Langer leading the tributes.

“What a great player and a great bloke. We are shocked and very sad to hear of his passing,” he said. “Deano was a true legend of Australian sport and world cricket.”

Australia batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner, currently playing in the IPL with Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad respectively, took to Twitter.

Smith tweeted: “He was a wonderful player for Australia and he will be missed.”

Warner added: “So very sad to hear about this. Rip Deano, you will be missed.”

Former England skipper Michael Vaughan added: “This is so sad ... A hero of mine has gone far too soon ... always offered so much advice to us younger players when he played at Derby ... RIPDeano.”