WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) Reaction on Thursday to the death of former New Zealand captain Martin Crowe, from lymphoma at the age of 53:
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''My champion, my hero, my friend. I will love you forever. RIP'' - Actor Russell Crowe, Martin Crowe's New Zealand-born cousin.
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''Very sad to hear of the passing of Martin Crowe this morning. An inspiration to me and so many others. One of the true greats'' - Former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming.
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''Kiwi great Martin Crowe is no more and the cricket world is poorer again. Truly a giant modern batsman and fine analyst'' - former India spin bowler Bishan Bedi.
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''A modern great and cricket icon Martin Crowe is no more. Brilliant cricket brain and a warm persona'' - India allrounder Anil Kumble.
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''You will always be a legend in my eyes. Thank you for all your help and advice. Now you can rest easy my friend. Miss you already'' - Former Australia captain Michael Clarke.
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''So sad to hear the passing of Martin Crowe. One of the game's greats on and off the field'' - former Australia batsman Damien Martyn.
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''So sad to hear news of Martin Crowe passing away. For those of us who grew up watching cricket in the 80s we owe him immensely'' - former New Zealand allrounder Scott Styris.
