Cricket world in shock as Australian legend Dean Jones collapses and dies of a ‘major heart attack’ at a hotel room in Mumbai aged 59 – leaving behind his wife and their two daughters
Australian cricket great Dean Jones (pictured in 2015) has died at 59
Australian cricket great Dean Jones has died in India at the age of 59.
The player turned coach, who was born in Coburg, Melbourne, reportedly suffered a medical episode in a Mumbai hotel.
Jones was part of Star India’s commentating team for the IPL.
Indian media have reported the former top-order batsman died from a massive heart attack.
‘It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing away of Mr. Dean Mervyn Jones AM,’ a Star India statement read.
‘He died of a sudden cardiac arrest.
‘We express our deep condolences to his family and stand ready to support them in this difficult time.’
Star India said they are in communication with the Australian High Commission.
Jones is seen during a ODI match against South Africa at the SCG in January 1994
Jones (centre) celebrates Christmas with his two daughters last year
‘Dean Jones was one of the great ambassadors of the game associating himself with Cricket development across South Asia,’ the statement continued.
‘He was passionate about discovering new talent and nurturing young Cricketers. He was a champion commentator whose presence and presentation of the game always brought joy to millions of fans.
‘He will be sorely missed by everyone at Star and his millions of fans across the globe.’
Jones is hailed for revolutionising the ODI format.
Cricket fans quickly posted their condolences to Twitter when the news broke on Thursday night.
Jones (pictured) is hailed for revolutionising the ODI format
Former England Test cricketer Monty Panesar said: ‘Very sad to hear passing away of Dean Jones.’
‘Top commentator and coach, great cricket brain, will be missed by the cricketing community #RIPdeanjones.’
Indian cricket coach Ravi Shastri said he was shocked to lose ‘a colleague and a dear friend’.
‘Gone so young. Condolences to the family and may his soul rest in peace,’ he wrote.
Jones leaves behind his wife Jane and their two daughters, Isabella and Phoebe.
More to come
Cricket fans quickly posted their condolences to Twitter when the news broke on Thursday night
Jones enjoys a game of beach cricket against the backdrop of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 2006