Ex-cricketer Bevan Congdon passes away

Former New Zealand cricketer Bevan Congdon passed away in Auckland on Saturday after a long bout of illness.

He died a day before his 80th birthday.

Condoling his demise, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) chief executive David White said that the former player was at the centre of the national team at a time it started gaining attention in the international cricket.

"Bevan was at the centre of the New Zealand team at a time it started gaining attention on the international cricket scene for the all the right reasons - in no small part due to his leadership and ability," ESPNcricinfo quoted White, as saying.

"He's left a real legacy in terms of putting New Zealand cricket on the map, and I know the wider cricketer family - not just in New Zealand but worldwide, will be mourning his loss," he added.

Congdon, who made his debut for New Zealand in 1965, appeared in a total of 61 Tests taking 59 wickets over a 13-year test career.

He had also captained New Zealand in 17 Tests, winning one of those matches where he also played a crucial role in the first victory against England 40 years ago. He scored 44 in New Zealand's first innings during that match.

Meanwhile, he also had a fine record in ODIs, smashing two half-centuries and a hundred in 11 matches he played for New Zealand at an average of 56.33.

Congdon is survived by his wife Shirley, daughters Ali and Sandy, and grandchildren---Matthew, Joshua, Lily and Reeves.