Cricket fans and fellow commentators are sending well-wishes to Michael Vaughan after the death of the England legend’s father Graham. Vaughan had been in Australia commentating for Fox Sports during the Ashes series.
He returned home during the third Test in Adelaide to be with his dad and family, and managed to arrive in time to say goodbye. Vaughan revealed on social media on Monday that Graham had passed away, after his father had been battling cancer.
Michael Vaughan had been in Australia commentating for Fox Sports, but returned home during the third Test. Image: Getty
Describing Graham as his “hero”, Vaughan wrote: “With a heavy heart and tears rolling down my cheek as I type, yesterday we said goodbye to my hero, my mentor, my best pal & most importantly the greatest DAD anyone could ever want. He left us peacefully & in no pain in my bothers arms to a standing ovation.
“I am just so blessed to have made it home to spend the most special 30 hrs laying next to him talking / crying & as always with Dad laughing. He really has had an incredible zest for life and making sure he lives his but more importantly encouraged all around him to do the same. That’s exactly what we are all going to do in his honour.”
The former England captain made special mention of his brother David and his wife Caroline for stepping up when he was away. “I have so many people to say thanks but non more than my brother David, who has been a rock for Mum & Dad this last few weeks,” Vaughan wrote. “I love you so much Dave .. also Dave’s wife Caroline for doing so much for them this last few weeks.
“The team at Weston park cancer centre in Sheffield have been incredible to Dad and finally to where he peacefully said goodbye. RIP DAD. We all love you so much and you are going to be hugely missed but your legacy will last forever xxx Love ya Dad.”
Michael Vaughan (R) alongside David Warner during the second Ashes Test. (Photo by Philip Brown/Getty Images)
Cricket world rallies around Michael Vaughan after loss
The Barmy Army account commented: “Sorry for your loss, Michael.” Fox Sports colleague Adam Gilchrist wrote: “Continue to carry that very legacy forward in the manner you do mate. Love you and look forward to the hug and toast.”
Former England teammate Kevin Pietersen wrote: “Sorry mate!” While David Lloyd added: “Such a wonderful man has left us. I hope in your grief you can celebrate the great times you all had together.”