Former New Zealand cricket captain Martin Crowe passes away

Former New Zealand cricket captain Martin Crowe loses his battle against cancer at age 53. He is survived by his wife, Lorraine Downs, and two stepchildren

Wellington: Former New Zealand cricket captain Martin Crowe has died of lymphoma aged 53, his family said.

Martin Crowe. Pic/AFP

Crowe was first diagnosed with aggressive follicular lymphoma in 2012 and after chemotherapy, he was thought to be in remission. But Crowe announced in September 2014 that the cancer, which he called "my friend and tough taskmaster," had returned.

Crowe is survived by his wife, Lorraine Downs, and two stepchildren.

In a statement his family said "it is with heavy hearts that the family of Martin Crowe advise his death. The family request privacy at this time."

Crowe played 77 tests and 143 one-day internationals for New Zealand in a 13-year career. He scored 5,444 test runs at an average of 45.36 with 17 centuries.

Twitter reactions from cricketers and celebrities:

Hollywood actor Russell Crowe, who is Martin's cousin -

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

 

Today we lost a legend of our game. Not only was he a great sportsman but more importantly a great human. I couldn't have asked for a better mentor and friend to help me through the last couple of years. You inspired me to become a better person on and off the field. I will miss you. #RIPHogan #FootworkGup

A photo posted by Martin Guptill (@martyguptill31) onMar 2, 2016 at 8:35pm PST

Until we meet again Hogan. Love Tuisi pic.twitter.com/gXJCWlvaCa

— Ross Taylor (@RossLTaylor) March 3, 2016

RIP Martin Crowe, an absolute legend and an iconic star for the @BLACKCAPS
My deepest condolences to his family and friends.

— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 3, 2016

Good man, great cricketer, outstanding captain and a fighter taken away too early. Goodbye Martin Crowe, loved around the world.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) March 3, 2016

Good man, great cricketer, outstanding captain and a fighter taken away too early. Goodbye Martin Crowe, loved around the world.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) March 3, 2016

Deeply saddened to hear that Martin Crowe has passed away, master batsman & one of the great thinkers in our game. #RIPHogan

— Tom Moody (@TomMoodyCricket) March 3, 2016

Saddened to hear of the passing of a great cricketer Martin Crowe - the best New Zealand captain I played against.

— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 3, 2016

Very sad to wake up to the news that Martin "Hogan" Crowe has passed away...!!
One of the best to play the wonderful game !! RIP

— Ian Botham (@BeefyBotham) March 3, 2016

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