Benaud died aged 84 in a Sydney hospice after a battle with skin cancer.
The former Australian cricket captain and well-loved TV and radio commentator spent most of his childhood in Parramatta, attending Burnside Public School and Parramatta High School.
Benaud started playing first grade cricket with his father Lou for the Cumberland District Cricket Club at the age of 16 before going on to play for NSW aged just 18.
Richie was first selected for the Australian team at the age of 21 and is one of only ten Australian cricketers to score 10,000 runs and take 500 wickets. When he retired he was the leading Test wicket taker of all time.
In 1961 Parramatta paid tribute to Benaud’s contribution to the cricket and sporting community by naming a local sporting ground in his honour - the Richie Benaud Oval.
Lord Mayor Scott Lloyd said Benaud would be remembered as one of Parramatta’s greatest sons.
“He was a true sporting icon and will be sorely missed,” Clr Lloyd said.
Parramatta District Cricket Club President Greg Monaghan said Richie Benaud was the greatest cricketer and best known sports personality around the globe to come out of the greater Parramatta district.
“He remained loyal to his roots and described himself as “a Parramatta boy”. He remained a passionate supporter of Central Cumberland District Cricket Club, now known as Parramatta District Cricket Club,” Mr Monaghan said.
“Richie remained heavily involved in the club, attending annual dinners and looking up the club scores every Sunday morning.
“Just like his father Lou, Richie was a prolific wicket taking leg spinner. He was recently named in the Central Cumberland Teams of the Decade for the 1950s and 1960s (Captain), which were announced to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of
Richie’s 1964/65 First Grade side winning the Sydney Premiership.
“As a commentator Richie had no peer and frequently mentioned Parramatta on air.”
Both Clr Lloyd, on behalf of council, and Mr Monaghan offered condolences to Richie Benaud’s family and loved ones.
