Australia cricket in mourning after deaths of former players Alan Davidson and Ashley Mallett
TRIBUTES are pouring in after the deaths of Test greats Alan Davidson and Ashley Mallet.
Davidson died on Saturday at the age of 92 whereas fellow Australian great Mallett died from cancer on Friday aged 76.
Cricket Australia chairman Richard Freudenstein said: "Alan was a colossal figure in our game.
"Not only as one of the finest players to have represented Australia, but for the positive influence he exerted across the game as an administrator, mentor and benefactor."
Freudenstein added: "Ashley Mallett was a wonderful player, admired journalist and highly acclaimed author.
"He played a significant part in Australian cricket not only as a player but as a prolific storyteller who has preserved the memories of some of the game's greatest moments in time."
Davidson made his Test debut on the 1953 Ashes tour and went on to play in 44 Tests.
The Australian legend took 186 wickets with best figures of 7-93 and was rated as the world's best left-arm fast bowler of his day.
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The New South Wales great also scored 1,328 runs at an average of 24.59, including five half-centuries.
After his retirement, Davidson dedicated 33 years as president of Cricket New South Wales and another 20 as a trustee of the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Mallett played 38 Tests between 1968 and 1980 as he took 132 wickets and is behind only Nathan Lyon (399) and Hugh Trumble (141) on Australia's list of most successful Test off-spinners.
After his retirement, the South Australia legend set up the Spin Australia programme and the Spin Academy in Sri Lanka.
He is also famous for writing a number of books, such as the biography of fellow Australian great Victor Trumper.
Former Australian captain Lisa Sthalekar posted: “This makes me sad, even though I know Davo had a great innings of 92.
"Always enjoyed seeing him at various functions. Such a huge personality in the game, who loved the game and all those involved. You will be missed.”
Cricket NSW chief executive Lee Germon released the following statement: “Alan Davidson was one of New South Wales’ greatest ever cricketers and we are extremely saddened to hear of his passing.
“From everyone at Cricket NSW and all of those who benefitted from Alan’s massive contribution to the sport, I’d like to pass on my condolences to his family and friends.
“Alan’s involvement in cricket was far greater than just his outstanding playing career and his legacy will live on in the state for many years to come.
“He was a wonderful player, administrator, mentor and benefactor, but most of all he was a gentleman of the game.”