AUCKLAND (Web Desk) – The cricketing world is mourning the death of arguably New Zealand’s greatest-ever player, with news that Martin Crowe has died aged 53.
The former Black Caps captain was diagnosed with terminal Lymphoma in September 2014 and lost his battle with the disease this morning.
A statement from Crowe’s family confirmed he had passed away peacefully in Auckland “surrounded by family.”
Regarded by many as the finest batsman to ever come out of New Zealand, Crowe represented his country in 77 tests and boasted a 45-run average.
He had a number of memorable innings at the crease during his career, with his 299-run stint against Sri Lanka in 1991 the stuff of legend.
Crowe named reaching a century against England at Lord’s in 1994 as one of his greatest achievements, which was made all the more remarkable given that he had just returned from a serious knee injury.
RIP Martin Crowe you will always be remembered. You were the BEST I ever bowled against and a top human being. #Gonetoosoon #RIPMartinCrowe
— Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) March 3, 2016
The skillful batsman breached the 100-run mark on 17 occasions.
He was regarded as a leading analytical thinker in the sport and created Cricket Max, which preceded the Twenty20 format.
Crowe spearheaded a golden era for New Zealand cricket and was immensely popular amongst the masses, despite being outspoken over certain issues.
He admitted to burning his New Zealand blazer following the decision to replace Ross Taylor as national captain in favour of Brendon McCullum.
RIP Martin Crowe. A very sad day. Thoughts are with friends and family. pic.twitter.com/cfbPHHmSl3
— Grant Elliott (@grantelliottnz) March 3, 2016
Despite this, heartfelt condolences have come in from the world over following the news of Crowe’s death, led by New Zealand Prime Minister John Key.
“Martin was a truly great sportsman – one of our finest ever batsmen and sharpest cricketing minds,” the PM said.
His elder brother Jeff was also a test player, and their father Dave was a First Class cricketer.
Crowe’s cousin, actor Russell Crowe, tweeted his condolences.
My champion, my hero, my friend. I will love you forever.
RIP M.D.Crowe . pic.twitter.com/PHynH9RNQ7— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) March 3, 2016
Martin Crowe was the third of his countrymen to be inducted into the Cricket Hall of Fame and is survived by his wife, Lorraine Downes, and a daughter, Emma.
