Tributes flow for Richie Benaud

Tributes have poured in from around the world following the death of legendary cricket commentator Richie Benaud, who passed away peacefully in his sleep last night. Photo / Getty.

Tributes have poured in from around the world following the death of legendary cricket commentator Richie Benaud, who passed away peacefully in his sleep last night.

* Former Australian cricketer Brett Lee: "Very sad to hear the news today of the passing of Richie Benaud. What a legend of a cricketer and broadcaster for @Channel9 @WWOS9 #bestever"

* Former Australian cricketer Glenn McGrath: "Very sad news about Ritchie Benaud. A legend of Australian cricket & the commentary box. We've lost a true Aussie icon ?? RIP Ritchie"

* Australian cricketer Nathan Lyon: "Very sad to hear the news that the great Richie Benaud has passed! #truelegend #RIP"

* Australian cricketer Peter Siddle: "Growing up the summer of cricket had only one voice. Richie RIP, you will be missed mate #Legend #RIPRichie #VoiceOfTheGame"

* Australian cricket coach Darren Lehmann: "Our thoughts are with the Benaud family at this time, RIP one of the games all time greats! He will be missed by the whole cricketing world."

* Prime Minister Tony Abbott: "A sad day for Australia. We have lost a cricketing champion and Australian icon. What an innings. RIP Richie Benaud"

* Federal Opposition Leader Bill Shorten: "Australia has lost a legend of cricket & the voice of our summers sad day for our country. Farewell & rest in peace Richie Benaud."

* Greens leader Christine Milne: "Vale Richie Benaud. #RIPRichieBenaud We are a grateful nation."

* Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk: "Sad news to hear of the passing of Richie Benaud - a true Australian cricketing legend and voice of Australian Cricket. #RIPRichieBenaud"

* Former Socceroos player Harry Kewell: "A sad day in cricket. I will sadly miss listening to the legend #richiebenaud's commentary. His voice IS cricket #RIPRichieBenaud #legend"

* Australian cyclist Anna Meares "Rest In Peace Richie Benaud What a marvellous innings you had!"

* NRL chief executive Dave Smith: "Sad to hear of the passing of Richie Benaud, a true legend in every respect. He will be missed. Condolences from the rugby league community"

* British Formula One driver Martin Brundle: "RIP Richie Benaud. A true gentleman and inspiration in sport and sports commentary. A class act and great reminder that less can mean more" * NRL star Cameron Smith: "Farewell to Richie Benaud, a cricket legend, both on and off the pitch. The voice of many Aussie childhood summers. Thanks for the memories" * British newsman Piers Morgan: "RIP Richie Benaud. The greatest cricket commentator of them all & a wonderful man. #MourningEveryone"