Former Australian Test batter and cricket commentator Keith Stackpole has passed away

A former Australian Test batter who became a commentator beamed into loungerooms around the country for decades has passed away.

Tributes are flowing for former Test batter turned long-time commentator Keith Stackpole after he passed away aged 84.

A Victorian legend, Stackpole played 43 Tests between 1966 and 1974 before becoming a well known and respected television and radio commentator.

Stackpole made his Test debut in Adelaide in 1966 and went on to score seven centuries among his 2801 runs with a high score of 207 made against the old enemy, England, in Brisbane in 1970.

He finished his Test career with a pair of ducks against New Zealand in 1974.

Keith Stackpole, Australian Test cricketer

He played alongside some of the game’s greatest players including Ian Chappell and Dennis Lillee, was vice-captain of his country for a time was good enough to be named Wisden’s Cricketer of the Year in 1973.

After retiring from cricket in 1974, due to a life-changing back injury Stackpole forged a lengthy career in the media, joining the commentary team for Kerry Packer’s rebel World Series Cricket.

Former cricketer and cricket commentator Keith Stackpole interviews Shane Warne.

He also commentated on radio and had a newspaper column in Melbourne.

Stackpole was awarded an MBE in 1974 for services to cricket.

Cricket Australia Chair Mike Baird said Stackpole was one of the “great contributors” to cricket.

“And his legacy will live long into the future,” he said.

“Not only was he an outstanding player for Australia and Victoria, his work in the media, radio and TV commentary and as a mentor to many players who followed in his footsteps demonstrated his enduring passion and influence in the game.

Cricket Victoria Chair Ross Hepburn said Stackpole was a “true statesman of Victorian cricket”.

“We extend our condolences to Keith’s family, friends and team mates. Keith was a giant of the game — a brilliant cricketer, a passionate Victorian, and a proud Australian,” he said.

“His courage at the crease and his deep understanding of the game made him one of the most respected figures of his time.

“Keith was a true statesman of Victorian cricket. He played the game with great spirit and remained a devoted ambassador for cricket long after his playing days were over.”

He is survived by his wife Pat and children Peter, Tony and Angela.

Originally published as Former Australian Test batter and cricket commentator Keith Stackpole has passed away