Australian cricket legend Dean Jones, on Thursday, passed away at 59 due to a massive heart attack. Jones, who was a part of Star Sports commentary team for the ongoing Indian T20 League, was in a bio-secure bubble in a seven-star hotel in Mumbai and doing the off-tube commentary for the tournament that is going on in the UAE.
"It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing away of Mr. Dean Mervyn Jones AM. 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. We are in touch with the Australian High Commission to make the necessary arrangements.
"Dean Jones was one of the great ambassadors of the game associating himself with Cricket development across South Asia. 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.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends," Star Sports India, the host broadcasters for the Indian T20 League 2020, confirmed the news of Jones's passing in a statement.
Saddened to hear the news of Dean Jones passing away. Still cannot believe it. Was one of my favourite commentators, he was on air in many of my landmarks. Had really fond memories with him. Will miss him.
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag)
Tragic news coming from Mumbai: one of the real personalities of cricket and commentary, the Aussie who played that unforgettable innings in Chennai in 1986, Dean Jones has passed away. Loved him on air and at the crease. Saw him last night on RIP.
— Rajdeep Sardesai (@sardesairajdeep)
Shocking news for the global cricket fraternity. Dean Jones gone at 59. Thoughts with his family.
— Jamie Alter (@alter_jamie)
Really shocking to lose a colleague and a dear friend - Dean Jones. Gone so young. Condolences to the family and may his soul rest in peace -
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc)
Shocked beyond words,just yesterday saw him do a great piece during the game b/w MI & KKR - this year 2020!!
— zainab abbas (@ZAbbasOfficial)
Shocking news coming of former Aussie cricketer Dean Jones passing away after a massive cardiac arrest
— Cricketwallah (@cricketwallah)
RIP, Dean Jones. You will be missed.
— Kings XI Punjab (@lionsdenkxip)
I’m deeply shocked and saddened by the demise of our fellow commentator He was fine in the morning. I had video call with his son two days back. Everything was fine. Everything was normal. I can’t believe this
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan)
Absolutely devastated to hear about the demise of Dean Jones. A colossal loss to the cricketing community. His connection to Chepauk will always be cherished. Deepest condolences to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace.
— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL)
We will miss you & your voice, Professor.
Deeply saddened by the loss of commentator & former Aussie cricketer, Dean Jones.
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals)
I just wish this wasn’t true. So shocked and heartbroken to hear about the death of Dean Jones cannot believe this
— Imad Wasim (@simadwasim)
Sad day for cricket fraternity
— Sana Mir ثناء میر (@mir_sana05)