Ian Botham, Michael Vaughan pay tribute to late Brian Close

Johannesburg: Former England skippers Ian Botham and Michael Vaughan have expressed their condolences over the demise of Brian Close, who passed away at the age of 84 from lung cancer.

ALSO READ: Brian Close, youngest cricketer to win Test cap for England, dies

"The best captain a young player could ever have wished for "Brian Close" ! Myself & IVA owe you so much! RIP Closey," Botham wrote on Twitter.

Expressing his grief over Close's demise, Vaughan said that he was a true inspiration, adding that Close helped him as a kid to grow up at Yorkshire.

Former Yorkshire and England cricket captain Brian Close (L) poses with former West Indies cricketer Michael Holding (R) on June 21, 2012. Pic/AFP

Former West Indian cricketer Michael Holding revealed that Close was very tough, adding that he was willing to go out and fight for his country, Sport24 reported.

Close made his Test debut in 1949 against New Zealand at Old Trafford and ODI debut against Australia in 1972.

The left-hander appeared in 22 Tests and remained unbeaten in his seven games as skipper. He also led his country towards winning the four championship titles.

Close played his final first-class match at the age of 55 in 1985.