Former Australian cricketer Bob Cowper passes away at 84

(Web Desk): Bob Cowper, a former Australian Test cricketer from the 1960s, has passed away at the age of 84. He played 27 Test matches for Australia and was known for his elegant left-handed batting style and impressive performances at the crease.

Cowper made most of his cricketing impact while playing for Victoria in first-class cricket. Between 1959 and 1970, he appeared in 147 first-class matches, scoring 10,595 runs at an average of 53.78. He hit 26 centuries during his career.

In Test cricket, Cowper scored 2,061 runs with an average of 48. His most famous innings came in 1966, when he scored 307 runs against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). That triple-century was the highest individual Test score in Australia until Matthew Hayden's 380 in 2003.

Aside from his batting, Cowper also bowled part-time off-spin. He took 183 wickets in first-class cricket, including 36 in Test matches.

Cricket Australia paid tribute to Cowper, describing him as a "hugely talented" batter known for his patience and ability to build big scores. "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bob Cowper," said Cricket Australia chair Mike Baird. "Bob will always be remembered for his famous triple-century at the MCG and his strong influence on Australian cricket in the 1960s."

Cowper retired from international cricket at the young age of 28. He left the game to pursue a career in stockbroking and merchant banking. Cricket writer Gideon Haigh noted that Cowper was “too intelligent and ambitious to linger long in a game offering such modest financial rewards.”

His decision to leave cricket early left a strong impression on teammates, including Ian Chappell, who later fought for better rights and pay for players.

After his playing career, Cowper continued to serve the game as an ICC match referee, showing his lasting dedication to cricket.

Cricket Australia extended its condolences to Cowper’s family, friends, and former teammates, remembering him as a great contributor to the sport on and off the field.