Melbourne, Nov 14 (IANS): The Australian team offered their condolences to the family of cricketer-turned-commentator Peter Roebuck, who died Saturday.

Roebuck a frequent companion of the Australian team in their tours, was found dead outside the Southern Sun Hotel Newlands.

"The 55-year old writer was interviewed earlier in the day by the police over an alleged sexual assault," The Australian reported.

"The team were left shaken after receiving the news of his death. Captain Michael Clarke received the news in the middle of the night and was in complete shock," the report said.

Australian batting coach Justin Langer praised Roebuck as a "great writer" and a "talent lost".

A pale-looking Shane Watson also passed his wishes to the many colleagues of Roebuck covering the current tour of South Africa.

CA Chief Executive Officer James Sutherland also offered condolences to Roebuck's family.

"Peter was a familiar face around Australian cricket who had been with the team only hours before his sudden death," he said.

"He bought particular insight to his commentary based on his lengthy experience as a first-class cricketer and captain, and combined that with a singular flair for the written and spoken word."