Richie Benaud’s family declines Tony Abbot’s offer of a state funeral

Richie Benaud's family declines Tony Abbot's offer of a state funeral

Former Australia captain and commentator Richie Benaud’s family has rejected Australia Prime Minister Tony Abbott’s offer of a state funeral for him. Abbott said that that the gesture was to offer a mark of respect to the man who meant so much to millions of Australians and many fans across the world.  Richie Benaud passes away: Shane Warne pays tribute

“My understanding is that Richie’s own wishes was for something very, very quiet and very, very private,” Abbott told reporters on Sunday. His family will honour Benaud’s wishes by giving him the funeral that the great player wanted, according to theguardian.com  Richie Benaud passes away: BCCI offers condolences

Benaud’s widow Daphne apparently called Abbott on Saturday to decline his offer. Benaud will be remembered through the week through a private gathering, which will only be attended by his immediate family. Tributes have poured in from all around the world after Benaud passing after his long battle with skin cancer. Richie Benaud: 21 lesser-known facts about the Voice of Cricket