Cricket Australia has paid tribute to Lindsay Kline - who faced the final ball of the first tied Test match back in 1960 - following his death at the age of 81.

A slow left-arm chinaman bowler, Kline represented his country in 13 Tests between 1957 and 1961 - claiming 34 wickets at an average of 22.82.

He took a hat-trick in only his second Test to secure victory over South Africa at Cape Town in January 1958.

Yet he is best known for being the man at the crease for the last ball of the famous tied Test between Australia and West Indies at The Gabba.

With the scores tied, Kline played the seventh ball of Wes Hall's 18th over to square leg and saw partner Ian Meckiff run out to bring about a tie.

In the next Test, which proved his last, Kline batted for 109 minutes in a 10th-wicket partnership with Ken Mackay that salvaged a draw for Australia.

"The news of Lindsay's passing is incredibly sad," said Cricket Australia chief executive officer James Sutherland.

"He was a wonderful man, a great character and a fine contributor to our game. He will be missed dearly.

"Throughout his cricket career he was involved in some extraordinary moments that have become part of the rich history of our great game."