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Picture Credit: Twitter

The ongoing first one-day international between Australia and Zimbabwe brought back the heartening memories of Australia legend Andrew Symonds. Ahead of the start of the match, Andrew Symonds' children took the centre stage as they paid tribute to their father in Townsville. Symonds' children, Billy and Chloe were part of the pre-match ceremony, standing alongside Aaron Finch and Steve Smith for the national anthem. 

The kids also ran with the drinks during Australia's fielding stint in the first innings of the match and spent their time in the team dugout. Earlier, the outfield was decorated with Roy 388, Symonds nickname and Test cap number in memory of the former all-rounder who died in a car accident west of Townsville in May 2022.

At the interval, Symonds family with Laura Vidmar, sister Louise and mother Barbara along with children and close friend Jimmy Maher walked to the pitch to lay his baggy green, his bat, his Akubra hat, a fishing rob and a crab pot at the wickets. Symonds two dogs, Buzz and Woddy also walked to the centre. 

Watch the video here:

Australian skipper Aaron Finch said that the all-rounder was a remarkable player. "He was someone who put bums on seats, he was box office with bat and in the field. It's been a really sad time obviously for Australian cricket over the last little while. It'll be nice to have some tributes and his family here," Finch said. 

"He literally changed the game. Roy was an amazing talented and natural cricketer. He was also a brilliant team mate," said Australia coach Andrew McDonald. Adding further, McDonald stated that Symonds made a significant impact on the game, particularly in Queensland as well as Australia and the world.

"Roy also has a huge influence on inspiring the new generation of cricketers. He changed the white-ball cricket just like Dean Jones did in his time. Both the players are ultimate legends of Australian cricket," added McDonald. 

Speaking of Andrew Symonds, he played 26 Test, 198 ODIs and 14 T20Is for Australia which included his instrumental role in winning the 2003 World Cup in South Africa and a maiden Test century against England in the 2006-07 Boxing Day Test at the MCG.