Former Australian cricketer Dean Jones passed away in Mumbai on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest. The 59-year-old was part of the Star Sports commentary panel for the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) being held in the United Arab Emirates (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," Star India confirmed in a statement.
"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," the statement added.
Jones played 52 Tests for Australia, amassing 3,631 runs at 46.55 with 11 centuries and 14 fifties. In 164 ODIs, Jones scored 6,068 runs at 44.61 with seven tons and 46 fifties.
The Star statement further said that Jones was one of the great ambassadors of the game who associated 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," the statement said.
Tributes flowed on Twitter for the former batsman soon after news of his death broke. "Absolutely heartbreaking news about Dean Jones passing away," said Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar. "A wonderful soul taken away too soon. Had the opportunity to play against him during my first tour of Australia. May his soul rest in peace and my condolences to his loved ones."
"Awful to hear the news of Dean Jones passing away in Mumbai. He was a wonderful player for Australia and he will be missed. My thoughts are with his family. RIP Deano," said talismanic Australian batsman Steve Smith.
"Shocked to hear about the tragic loss of Dean Jones. Praying for strength and courage to his family and friends," said India captain Virat Kohli.
"Rest In Peace, Prof. The cricketing world will miss your entertaining lectures," said India batsman Rohit Sharma.
"Terrible news of Dean Jones passing away. My heartfelt Condolences to the family," said former India batsman VVS Laxman.
"Unbelievably sad news about @ProfDeano. Thoughts and prayers with family. absolutely shocked. Awful news," said former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara.
"Stunned by the news of Dean Jones's passing. Always a Larger then life personality. Brilliant player. Condolences to Jane and family #RIPDeano," said former Australia fast bowler Damien Fleming.
"Can't believe it that's terrible news. Fantastic player and always enjoyed his company on and off the field.Thoughts are with his family at this tragic time.#RIP," said former Australia batsman Mark Waugh.
"How cruel life can be. Dean Jones was at the same hotel as all of us. He had breakfast post his regular workout sessions earlier this morning and now the news of his sudden passing away. Totally saddened and shocked #RIPDeanJones," said former India batsman Hemang Badani.
Jones had been a regular in the commentary teams for the IPL and the league also paid tribute to him. "We are extremely shocked and sad to learn of the untimely demise of Mr. Dean Jones. His energy and enthusiasm for the game will be truly missed. Our thoughts with his family, friends and his followers in this hour of grief," the league tweeted.
He was also an integral part of the Pakistan Super League, coaching Islamabad United and Karachi Kings. "PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) is devastated with the news of Dean Jones' passing. On behalf of Pakistan cricket, the PCB offers its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and the entire cricket community," said the PCB.