New Zealand Cricket Legend Martin Crowe passes away at 53

New Zealand cricket legend Martin Crowe has passed away after a battle with a rare and aggressive form of cancer. "It is with heavy hearts that the family of Martin Crowe, MBE advise his death," his family said in a statement.

One of the finest batsmen of his generation, Martin Crowe played 77 tests and 143 one-day internationals for New Zealand. He scored 5444 test runs at an average of 45.36, including 17 centuries and 18 half centuries. His top score was 299. Crowe's ODI runs totalled 4704 at an average of 38.55 with four centuries and 34 half centuries and a best score of 107 not out.

Crowe is survived by wife Lorraine Downes, daughter Emma and step-children Hilton and Jasmine. 

Australian cricket great Allan Border said he was thankful he was able to have one final chat with Crowe before he passed away.

The former Australian captain said he spoke to Crowe last week while in the country and although at the time he realised how weak the New Zealand cricket legend was, he'll always be thankful of having that last conversation.