Premier Mark McGowan has formally offered the family of the WA cricket legend Rod Marsh a State Memorial Service in Western Australia in his honour.
Rod Marsh will be laid to rest in South Australia, where he recently has resided, however, given his legacy to WA cricket, the State Government has offered to commemorate his life and his career with a State Memorial Service.
If accepted, it is likely the service will be held next month, to allow for increased crowd capacity following the expected easing of COVID related restrictions.
A range of suitable venues are under consideration, including the iconic Western Australian Cricket Association in East Perth – the scene of so many of Rod Marsh’s most memorable moments.
Rod Marsh grew up in Armadale, where he first honed his cricket skills in regular backyard battles with his brother. He went on to become one of Australia’s most iconic players, setting a world record 355 test match dismissals in a golden era of cricket.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
“Rod Marsh was an Australian legend – synonymous with long hot summers, the iconic WACA ground and the oft-repeated phrase ‘bowled Lillee, caught Marsh.’
“He will be fondly remembered as one of WA’s cricket greats – one of the best wicketkeepers to ever put on the gloves.
“A State Memorial Service is a fitting tribute to one of Western Australia’s finest.”
As stated by Sport and Recreation Minister David Templeman:
“Rod Marsh was a proud Western Australian who elevated the sport of cricket to a new level in the 1970s to 1980s.
“Sincere condolences to his family, particularly his wife Roslyn and his sons Dan, Jamie and Paul.”
