'ROY & WARNIE ARE SMILING DOWN'

SHANE'S FAMILY LEAD THE TRIBUTES TO ANDREW SYMONDS

- Lizzie Wilson

Universally known and loved as 'Roy', Andrew Symonds has been remembered as cricket's swashbuckling larrikin, the big-hitting right-hander with the famous dreadlocks who once asked for a pay cut so he could spend more time fishing.

On May 14, the 46-year-old devoted father of two was killed in a single-car crash 50km west of Townsville in Far North Queensland. It was the third death of an Aussie cricketing great in as many months, following the loss of legendary wicketkeeper Rod Marsh and spin king Shane Warne within hours of each other in March.

Throughout Andrew's colourful and sometimes controversial career, there was always one true constant: his teammates genuinely loved Roy, especially Warnie, who, like Andrew, was all about mateship and loyalty.

So, it was only fitting that Warnie's eldest child Brooke led the charge of tributes, sharing memories of the man she and siblings Jackson and Summer considered to be more like an uncle.

Posting happy snaps on Instagram of Andrew accompanying the Warne family at the Allan Border Medal in 2007, Brooke wrote: "The best date I ever had", before adding, "Heaven has gained another angel".