One of the fastest bowlers to ever play Test cricket, Thommo generated pace with an unusual slinging action.
After a low-key debut for Australia against Pakistan in 1972, he returned two years later to terrorise England's batsmen in tandem with Dennis Lillee, taking 33 wickets in the series.
When most of his teammates signed for Kerry Packer's World Series Cricket, he remained part of the official Australian side for two Test series before finally joining them.
His action ultimately took a toll on his body and a series of injuries meant he was not the force of old, but he still reached the 200 Test wicket mark before retiring.
Thommo has carried his familiar forthright approach into the commentary box, and also had a spell as Zimbabwe coach in 2000.