Michael Vaughan has revealed the sad news that his father, Graham, has passed away after a battle with cancer. The former England Test captain had been in Australia covering the Ashes but returned home to spend time with his father in hospital. The 51-year-old shared that he spent an emotional 30 hours by his father’s side, filled with tears and laughter, before his passing.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Vaughan shared pictures of himself smiling next to his father in a hospital bed, who was wearing an oxygen tube, along with three other family photos. Vaughan penned: “With a heavy heart and tears rolling down my cheek as I type yesterday we said goodbye to my hero, my mentor, my best pal and most importantly the greatest DAD anyone could ever want..

“He left us peacefully and in no pain in my brother’s arms to a standing ovation. .. I am just so blessed to have made it home to spend the most special 30 hrs laying next to him talking / crying and as always with Dad laughing ..”

“He really has had an incredible zest for life and making sure he lives his but more importantly encouraged all around him to do the same .. that’s exactly what we are all going to do in his honour..

“I have so many people to say thanks but non more than my Brother David who has been a rock for Mum and Dad this last few weeks .. I love you so much Dave .. also Dave’s wife Caroline for doing so much for them this last few weeks xxx the team at Weston park cancer centre in Sheffield have been incredible to Dad and finally to where he peacefully said goodbye @stlukessheff ..

“You are where he wanted to announce his innings was over but I can’t thank you all enough for sorting it at such short notice .. RIP DAD .. We all love you so much and you are going to be hugely missed but your legacy will last forever xxx Love ya Dad.”

Former Manchester United and England defender Gary Neville was amongst those offering their sympathies. He posted: “So sorry for your loss Michael.”

Ex-England player and coach David Lloyd, who has worked with Vaughan for Sky Sports, commented: “Such a wonderful man has left us ….I hope in your grief you can celebrate the great times you all had together.”

Former Australia wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist responded: “Continue to carry that very legacy forward in the manner you do mate. Love you and look forward to the hug and toast.”

Ex-England spinner Monty Panesar posted: “Sorry for your loss mate.”

Piers Morgan contributed: “So sorry to read this, Vaughany. What a lovely tribute.”

Jackson Warne, son of legendary Australia spin bowler Shane Warne, responded with a heart emoji.