Richie Benaud's family declines state funeral

The family of former Australia captain and legendary broadcaster Richie Benaud has refused to accept the prime minister's offer of a state funeral.

According to Prime Minister Tony Abbott, the offer was intended as a mark of respect for a man who meant so much to millions of people in the country and around the world.

Abbott said that his understanding is that Richie's own wishes was for something very, very quiet and very, very private, the Stuff.co.nz reported.

Also read: A tribute to Richie Benaud: Why we’ve lost a great educator

The renowned commentator passed away at the age of 84, having had treatment for skin cancer. He was branded as the ' voice of cricket ' by Prime Minister Tony Abbott.

Meanwhile, Benaud would be remembered this week in a private gathering attended only by his immediate family.

Also read: Richie Benaud always let pictures do most of the talking, says Sanjay Manjrekar