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Grace Hayden, sports presenter and daughter of Australian cricket legend Matthew Hayden, delivered a moving tribute as her father was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame 2025 in London. Her message, shared on social media, resonated deeply with the global cricket community, offering a rare glimpse into the personal side of one of the game’s most formidable figures.
Grace Hayden’s heartfelt tribute to her father
“To say I’m proud would be understatement Dad,” Grace began, encapsulating the emotion of the occasion. She reflected on her childhood, admitting that it was difficult to grasp the scale of her father’s achievements as a cricketer. “Growing up it was hard to understand just how exceptional you were at your craft. It wasn’t an easy journey—countless setbacks and testing times but finally things didn’t just pan out but you changed the way this great game was played. Dominating and intimidating any opposition you faced!” she wrote.
Matthew Hayden, renowned for his aggressive batting and imposing presence at the crease, redefined opening batting in Test and ODI cricket. His records and match-winning performances made him a household name, but for Grace, the man behind the legend was simply her dad.
Family: the foundation of Matthew Hayden’s success
Grace’s message went beyond cricketing accolades, highlighting the values that defined the Hayden family. “But the man I knew was just my Dad. The big soft teddy bear that gave every part of himself to his family,” she shared, emphasizing the warmth and support that characterized their home life.
She also paid tribute to her mother, Kellie, acknowledging the partnership that underpinned her father’s success. “At the core of that is your wonderful wife and my amazing Mum Kellie. You as a team (my parents) were never absent, always cared and no matter what or where you were in the world Dad I never felt you weren’t there for my special moments—the sports events, drama performances, in times I failed and needed a hand up—you both were there!”
Grace’s message went beyond cricketing accolades, highlighting the values that defined the Hayden family. “But the man I knew was just my Dad. The big soft teddy bear that gave every part of himself to his family,” she shared, emphasizing the warmth and support that characterized their home life.
She also paid tribute to her mother, Kellie, acknowledging the partnership that underpinned her father’s success. “At the core of that is your wonderful wife and my amazing Mum Kellie. You as a team (my parents) were never absent, always cared and no matter what or where you were in the world Dad I never felt you weren’t there for my special moments—the sports events, drama performances, in times I failed and needed a hand up—you both were there!”
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Though unable to attend the ceremony in London, Grace’s words carried the weight of her presence. “Today is a very special day and I’m sorry I can’t be there to celebrate with you and our family over in London when you are inducted into the @icc cricket hall of fame. But just know I’m so bloody proud of everything you have achieved but most of all that you are my dad. Love you lots and congratulations.”
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