The England and Wales Cricket Board has paid tribute to former Australia captain Richie Benaud, who has passed away at the age of 84.

Benaud, who played 63 Test matches for the Baggy Greens between 1952 and 1964 before becoming a highly respected television commentator upon his retirement, died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday.

ECB chairman Giles Clarke has described Benaud as being "a giant of the modern game", while also praising the Aussie's achievements both on and off the field.

"This is a very sad day. Cricket has lost perhaps its greatest advocate and someone who was a true giant of the modern game," he said. "Richie was a marvellously talented cricketer who in the early part of his career gave much to the Australian team as a player and a leader.

"But he will always, above all, be remembered as one of cricket's most influential and authoritative voices; a supremely gifted broadcaster, journalist and author. It is humbling to think that Richie was involved in more than 500 Test Matches as a player or a commentator.

"Few could match the breadth of knowledge and insight he brought to the commentary box; and all leavened by his marvellous dry wit which millions came to know and love both in this country and across the world."

Many others from the world of cricket have taken to Twitter overnight to express their sadness at the news.