Tributes for Test keeper Len Maddocks

Australia's oldest former Test cricketer, Len Maddocks, has died aged 90.

The wicketkeeper-batsman played seven Tests for Australia between 1954-56, scoring 177 runs and claiming 20 dismissals.

He also played 112 first-class matches for Victoria and Tasmania, where he scored more than 4000 runs and took 277 dismissals.

In later life he shifted into cricket administration, acting as Victoria's delegate to the Australian Cricket Board for 10 seasons between 1973-83 and as a national selector.

He was also the Australian team's manager on the Ashes tour in 1977 when an Australia team affected by World Series Cricket was defeated.

"Len made an outstanding contribution to cricket in his lifetime within state and national ranks, both as a player and administrator," Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland said.

"We were deeply saddened to hear of Lens passing this week and are truly appreciative of his dedication to assist in building the game to what it is today.

“On behalf of all at Cricket Australia, I extend our sympathies to Len’s family, friends and all those in cricket who have crossed paths with Len throughout his lengthy and valued involvement in the game.”

Maddocks was also selected in the Victorian team of the 20th century and was a Cricket Victoria (CV) life member.

"Len devoted his life to playing and serving Australian cricket and his impact on the game in this state cannot be underestimated," CV chief executive Tony Dodemaide said.

"At the completion of his playing career, Len held a variety of key administrative positions at Victorian and national levels and he was committed to the development of our game."

Former Queensland opening batsman Ken Archer is now Australia's oldest surviving Test cricketer at 88, while Neil Harvey is 87.