'We need to talk': Andrew Symonds' final text before fatal crash

A Fox Sports executive has given a brilliant insight into Andrew Symonds' "one of a kind" character, following the Aussie icon's tragic death over the weekend.

Australia was left shocked and devastated on Sunday after news broke that Symonds had been killed a car accident on Saturday night, with tributes flooding in from around the world for the beloved figure.

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The 46-year-old died in a single-vehicle accident after his car rolled near his home in Hervey Range, about 50km from Townsville in northern Queensland.

Symonds was travelling with his two pet blue heeler dogs - both of which survived the crash - with witnesses revealing the animals refused to leave his side.

The allrounder was a loveable figure in Australian cricket, before moving into commentary for Fox Sports.

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, Fox Sports Executive Director Steve Crawley said a text he received from Symonds just hours before the tragic accident, summed up the type of character the affable Aussie was.

Crawley says Symonds - who was off-contract with Fox after working as a commentator with the network for four years - sent him a message to go with a screenshot of an article about NFL superstar Tom Brady's staggering AU$540 million broadcasting deal with Fox Sports in the USA.

“Crawls, we need to talk. Roy,” Symonds' message read.

Crawley says he responded with a laughing emoji.

“I’d like to remember him as a nice guy, because that’s what he was,” Crawley told The Daily Telegraph.

“He was a great Australian character, sort of like an outback hero like the Crocodile Hunter, but real.”

In a statement from Fox Sports, Crawley added: “Andrew Symonds was one of a kind.

“We awake to this shocking news and our deepest sympathies are with his wife Laura, two children and all of his work mates and dear friends throughout Fox Sports and the Cricket fraternity.”

Symonds leaves behind wife Laura and their two young children, Chloe and Billy.

Laura said the family was shocked and devastated about the cricket icon's tragic death and what it means for their two kids in particular.

“We are still in shock,” she told the Courier Mail.

“I’m just thinking of the two kids. He was such a big person and there is just so much of him in his kids.”

Laura said her husband was “the most laid-back person”.

“Nothing stressed him out. He was an extremely chilled operator. So practical,” she said.

“He was never good with his phone but he always had time for everyone."

Symonds played 198 one-day internationals for Australia, as well as 26 Tests and 14 Twenty20 internationals.

The allrounder made 5088 runs at ODI level at an average of 39.75, also taking 133 wickets.

The Queenslander was a key member of the Aussie teams that won back-to-back World Cups in 2003 and 2007, before moving into commentary for Fox Sports.

His death has led to a flood of tributes from around the world, with former teammates and rivals alike remembering one of the game's great characters.

Tributes for Andrew Symonds roll in from around the world

"If Roy shook your hand you had his word, that's the sort of bloke he was and that's why I always wanted him on my team," former Australia Test captain Ricky Ponting said.

"An extraordinary player and even better human being. Can't believe he's gone. Thoughts are with his family at this time."

Adam Gilchrist tweeted: "I miss him so much ... already. Really hurting. Rest easy Royman.

"Think of your most loyal, fun, loving friend who would do anything for you. That's Roy."

Even Symonds' former arch nemesis Harbhajan Singh paid tribute.

Symonds accused Harbhajan of calling him a monkey during a fiery Test at the SCG in 2008, but the pair later made peace.

"Shocked to hear about the sudden demise of Andrew Symonds. Gone too soon," Harbhajan tweeted.

"Heartfelt condolences to the family and friends. Prayers for the departed soul."

Indian great Sachin Tendulkar tweeted: "Andrew Symonds' demise is shocking news for all of us to absorb.

"Not only was he a brilliant all-rounder, but also a live-wire on the field.

"I have fond memories of the time we spent together in Mumbai Indians. May his soul rest in peace, condolences to his family & friends."

Symonds' death comes soon after the passing of Test legends Shane Warne and Rod Marsh - in what has been a devastating year for Australian cricket.

with AAP

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