The life and times of Richie Benaud

Benaud is born in Penrith, New South Wales, Australia Benaud came from a cricketing family - his father was a leg spinner who played for Penrith.

Test debut Topfoto/ActionPlus Benaud picks up his first Test cap - against the West Indies.

Promotion to Australia Test captain Getty Images Benaud is appointed Australia captain - a role he relishes - and in his first two seasons as skipper, Australia win eight, draw four and lose only one Test.

Retirement from cricket and commentary career Benaud had already started commentating during his playing career, but his retirement precipitates a long and prosperous spell as a broadcaster and journalist.

Marriage to Daphne Surfleet Rex Benaud marries for the second time, and he and Surfleet, who had previously worked for The Daily Telegraph’s E W Swanton, remain together until his death.

Final British broadcast Getty Images When Benaud began his final commentary for Channel Four, at the Oval in 2005, the crowd reacted with spontaneous applause, while the players stopped and clapped. “Thank you for having me,” he concluded. “It’s been absolutely marvellous for 42 years."