Australian cricket legend Brian Taber dies aged 83 Tributes pour in for former wicketkeeper after he lost his life
Australian cricket pays tribute to former wicketkeeper Brian Taber Taber, widely regarded as one of Australia’s greatest wicketkeepers, died on Friday at the age of 83, shocking cricket.
Australian cricket is in mourning after the death of wicketkeeper Brian Taber aged 83.
Taber was seen as one of the all-time greats behind the stumps, with his closest friends commenting that he had a ‘heart of gold’.
He played 16 Tests for Australia between 1966 and 1970, earning a reputation as one of his country’s best glovesmen.
Born in Wagga Wagga and raised in Wollongong, Taber began his career with New South Wales in 1964–65 and became state captain.
Known as ‘Tabsy’ or ‘Herbie’ by his teammates, he averaged 18.01 with the bat but was a constant threat behind the stumps. He scored a century in 129 first-class matches.
Australian cricket legend Brian Taber has died at the age of 83
The New South Walesan is widely regarded as one of Australia’s best wicketkeepers
He retired in 1974 and became a top coach working with the Australia Under 19 team.
Such was his influence as a mentor and coach, the national U19s championship is named after Taber and he earned a nomination for NSW’s Hall of Fame in 2021.
Cricket NSW paid tribute to Taber, identifying him as ‘one of Australia’s greatest ever keepers’.
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley said, ‘We are deeply saddened by Brian’s passing and deeply grateful for his significant contribution to Australian cricket.’
Brian’s immense popularity among former teammates, and those fortunate enough to know him, is just one indication of the impact he has had on our game.
‘Brian had a passion for developing young players, and it is fitting that Player of the Tournament at the Men’s National Under-19 Championship will continue to receive the Brian Taber Medal.
Taber became a renowned coach and mentor to the Australian Under-19s
Taber (second left) with his New South Wales teammates after defeating Western Australia.
‘Our deepest condolences go out to Brian’s family, former teammates and his many friends at this sad time.’
Cricket NSW CEO Lee German called Taber ‘one of the most popular players in NSW and Australia’.
“We are devastated by the death of Brian Taber and extend our condolences to his family and friends,” German said.
His contribution to Australian cricket as a player, coach, manager and selector is immense.
‘Taabsi was universally loved both for his skill as a wicketkeeper and his character as a person.
‘He was a wonderful, genuine guy and will be sorely missed by all.’