Australia cricket legend Brian Taber dies as tributes arrive for the former wicketkeeper after losing his life aged 83.

Australian cricket is in mourning after goalkeeper Brian Taber died aged 83.

Taber was seen as one of the all-time greatest 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, where he built a reputation as one of his country’s best mitts.

Born in Wagga Wagga and raised in Wollongong, Taber began his career in 1964-65 with New South Wales and went on to captain the state.

Known as ‘Tabsy’ or ‘Herbie’ by his teammates, he averaged 18.01 with the bat but was a constant threat behind the stumps. He played 129 first class games and turned a century.

The New South Walian is widely regarded as one of Australia’s best wicketkeepers.

He retired in 1974 and became one of Australia’s best coaches, working with the Australia Under-19 team.

Such was his impact as a mentor and coach, the Under-19 national championship is named after Taber and he earned a nomination for the NSW Hall of Fame in 2021.

Cricket NSW paid tribute to Taber, calling him “one of Australia’s best goalkeepers”.

“We are deeply saddened by Brian’s passing and enormously grateful for his significant contribution to Australian Cricket,” said Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley.

‘Brian’s huge popularity among former teammates and all those lucky enough to have known him is just one indication of the impact he had on our game.

“Brian was passionate about developing young players, and it is only fitting that the Player of the Tournament at the Men’s Under-19 National Championship continue to receive the Brian Taber Medal.

Taber became a renowned coach and mentor to Australia Under-19s.

Taber (second left) with his New South Wales teammates after beating Western Australia

“Our deepest condolences to Brian’s family, former teammates and his many friends at this sad time.”

Cricket NSW CEO Lee Germon called Taber “one of the most popular NSW and Australian players of all time”.

“We are devastated by the passing of Brian Taber and send our condolences to his family and friends,” Germon said.

‘His contribution to Australian cricket was immense, as player, coach, manager and selector.

‘Tabsy was universally loved for both his skill as a goalkeeper and his character as a person.

“He was such a nice, genuine guy and he will be sorely missed by all.”