New Zealander · Auckland, New Zealand · Born 22 September 1962New Zealand's finest batsman and one of the most elegant stroke-makers of the 1980s and 1990s, whose Test average of 45 belied his immense class and influence.
Martin Crowe was New Zealand's greatest batsman, a technically gifted right-hander who was rated among the finest players of his generation. He scored 17 Test centuries and led New Zealand to the semi-finals of the 1992 World Cup, where he finished as the tournament's leading run-scorer. Tragically cut short by lymphoma, Crowe remains New Zealand cricket's iconic figure and a true great of the game.
Leading New Zealand to the semi-finals of the 1992 Cricket World Cup as captain and tournament's leading run-scorer.
How They Played
Crowe was an elegant right-handed batsman known for his classical technique and ability to play both defensively and aggressively as the situation demanded. He was particularly strong on the leg side and had excellent footwork against both pace and spin bowling.
Lasting Impact
Crowe elevated New Zealand cricket's profile internationally and inspired a generation of Kiwi batsmen with his skill and leadership.
Career Honours
- Shell Trophy (New Zealand domestic cricket) multiple times with Central Districts and Auckland
- Wisden Cricketer of the Year 1985
- New Zealand Cricket's inaugural Player of the Year Award
- ICC Cricket World Cup 1992 – Player of the Tournament (leading New Zealand to semi-finals)
- New Zealand Cricket Almanack Cricketer of the Year (multiple times)
- Member of the Order of New Zealand (ONZ) 2015
- Inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame 2014
- Shell Shield representative honours with New Zealand
- Test cricket record: highest score of 299 for New Zealand vs Sri Lanka 1991
- Named one of Wisden's Five Cricketers of the Year 1985
| Club | Period | Matches | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Districts | 1979–1995 | 127 | 8461 |
| Somerset | 1984–1988 | — | — |
New Zealander Athletes