The cricketing world has wrapped its arms around English legend Michael Vaughan after he revealed his father, Graham, had passed away after an ongoing battle with cancer.
In an emotional post on Monday, the 51-year-old delivered a tribute to his late dad, who he described as his “hero” and his “best pal”.
Vaughan returned to England, taking a break from his commentary with Fox Cricket to spend quality time with his family during his father’s last moments.
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“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 and most importantly the greatest DAD anyone could ever want,” he wrote in a post to Instagram.
“He left us peacefully and in no pain in my brother’s arms to a standing ovation.
“I am just so blessed to have made it home to spend the most special 30 hours laying next to him talking, crying and, as always with Dad, laughing.
“He really has had an incredible zest for life and making sure he lives his (life) but more importantly encouraged all around him to do the same. That’s exactly what we are all going to do in his honour.
“I have so many people to say thanks but none more than my brother David who has been a rock for Mum and Dad this last few weeks.
“I love you so much Dave. Also Dave’s wife Caroline for doing so much for them this last few weeks xxx.
“The team at Weston Park Cancer Centre in Sheffield have been incredible to Dad and finally to where he peacefully said goodbye @stlukessheff.
“You are where he wanted to announce his innings was over but I can’t thank you all enough for sorting it at such short notice. 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.”
A host of former players, celebrities and colleagues offered their condolences to Vaughan, commenting on his touching post.
Piers Morgan wrote “So sorry to read this, Vaughany. What a lovely tribute” while England football legend Gary Neville added “So sorry for your loss Michael”.
David ‘Bumble’ Lloyd said: “Such a wonderful man has left us … I hope in your grief you can celebrate the great times you all had together.”
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While Kevin Pietersen added “Sorry mate!” and Fox Cricket colleague Adam Gilchrist replied: “Continue to carry that very legacy forward in the manner you do mate. Love you and look forward to the hug and toast.”
England’s official Barmy Army account also wrote: “Sorry for your loss, Michael.”
Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer commented: “So sorry for your loss Michael. Thoughts with you and the family”.
Vaughan is expected to return to Australia ahead of the Boxing Day Test.
