In a poignant and stylish farewell, the iconic fan group known as 'The Richies' has taken to the Sydney Cricket Ground for one final time, honouring the late Australian cricket legend Richie Benaud. More than 600 members of the collective packed Bay 27 on Day Two of the Fifth Ashes Test, creating a sea of beige suits and silver wigs in a tribute that has become a cherished spectacle for cricket lovers globally.
A Two-Decade Tradition Comes to a Close
The group, co-founded by Michael Hennessy, began its unique homage in the summer of 2009-10. It started after devoted cricket fans read reports that it might be Benaud's final year commentating for Channel Nine. They sought to show appreciation for the man whose voice had defined the Australian summer for decades. What began with fans simply donning Benaud's famous beige jacket evolved into a rich set of traditions that became a staple of the Sydney Test match.
The final gathering was marked by a special 'pre-show' function outside the ground, attended by comedian and 12th man Billy Birmingham. This celebratory event preceded the group's last march into the SCG, where they were joined by cricket enthusiasts of all ages, many of whom had travelled significant distances to be part of cricketing history.
New Generation Embraces a Legend's Legacy
The enduring appeal of Richie Benaud was evident as the event attracted youngsters who never saw him play or commentate live. James, 21, who moved from the Sunshine Coast to Canberra, told the Daily Mail he was inspired by his roommate to take part. "Having watched them on TV as a child... It's great to be part of the Richie culture," he said.
Another first-time participant, Will, travelled over two hours from Jervis Bay with seven friends. "Being the last one, we thought it was a pretty good opportunity to come up and have a go," he explained. For 20-year-old Sam, the motivation was clear: "It'll be like a piece of history, a piece of cricket history really, so it's just great to be a part of."
Iconic Rituals and a Fitting Finale
Throughout their long tenure, The Richies developed beloved match-day rituals. Members would bring oversized commentary microphones into the ground, speaking into the mock devices all day. The group would famously mark the moment the clock struck 2.22pm, a nod to Benaud's distinctive pronunciation of 'two'. A few leaders would even perform a trumpet-style rendition of the Wide World of Sports theme song.
Co-founder Michael Hennessy reflected on Benaud's impact, telling Nine: 'He's the voice of cricket and was an Australian icon. Throughout his playing career and his commentary career, he was really marvellous.'
The group's final day in costume coincided with an entertaining session of Test cricket, featuring Joe Root's second Ashes hundred in Australia. It followed a touching display of unity the previous day, when The Richies teamed up with England's Barmy Army to form the 'McGrath Melodies' outside the ground, opening the 'Pink Test' in a show of solidarity for a cause greater than rivalry.
With one of their biggest ever turnouts, The Richies concluded their remarkable twenty-year journey in the very style their hero was known for: understated, respectful, and utterly memorable.
