One of Australia’s greatest cricketers, fast bowler Max Walker, has died from melanoma. The man known as “Tangles” for his seemingly awkward style played 34 tests for Australia and has been mourned by the cricketing community.

Jacob Miley reports.

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Tributes are flowing for the affable sportsman, commentator and all round nice guy.

Former teammates  among those offering condolences.

The Tasmanian born Walker died this morning after a two year battle with melanoma.

Tony Dodemaide, Cricket Victoria: “There’s no doubt that all in the community, but particularly in the cricket community will miss him”.

Cricket may have never been graced by Walker had he stuck with football… He played 85 games for Melbourne in the VFL.

But Cricket was his passion….

Tony Dodemaide, Cricket Victoria: “He always spoke so fondly about the baggy green and the effect of the baggy green and representing your country”.

Max Walker played 38 tests for Australia …in the late 70’s and  80’s.

He made his Test debut in 1973 and took 138 wickets  along side the likes of Dennis Lillee and and Jeff Thomson.

When his cricket career ended 9 years later Walker went on to become one of Australia’s most infectious sporting personalities.

Rodney Hogg, former fast bowler: “That’s why I call him a great Australian because he had so many other strings to his bow. It’s amazing for one bloke to be so gifted in so many areas”.

He was awarded an Order of Australia  for services to cricket.

But it was his Aussie larrikinism … that endeared him to many.

The cricketing community will turn out in force for the fast bowler’s funeral.

Jacob Miley, QUT News