Jeff Crowe's poignant tribute to Martin Crowe
Kiwi cricket legend Martin Crowe passed away on Thursday after a prolonged battle with cancer, but his brother Jeff Crowe was not among the family members who made the announcement ‘with heavy hearts’ from New Zealand. Instead, Jeff was fulfilling his duties as an ICC match referee in the India vs UAE match in the ongoing Asia Cup.
Less than twelve hours had passed between Martin’s passing away and Jeff’s immense show of resilience and professionalism. All the players wore black armbands as a mark of sorrow, and there was a minute’s silence observed as the two teams lined up before the match.
In what was a touching gesture which lasted a moment, Jeff saluted the picture of his younger brother being flashed on the giant screen, otherwise carrying on with his regular duties like officiating over the toss.
This is how Twitter reacted to the moment, in awe of Jeff’s strength:
That image of Jeff Crowe saluting the photograph of his younger brother on the big screen was sad and haunting. Will stay with me for long.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) March 3, 2016
Minute silence for Martin Crowe before UAE v India in Asia Cup. His brother Jeff is the match referee pic.twitter.com/ey7otDLbtU
— Paul Radley (@PaulRadley) March 3, 2016
I know how it feels when u lose a brother ...Got to be strong ..my eyes welled up at the toss seeing Geoff. Sad day. https://t.co/nsHSwDYusR
— Ramiz Raja (@iramizraja) March 3, 2016
Sorry Jeff Crowe of course..
— Ramiz Raja (@iramizraja) March 3, 2016
Both brothers are former New Zealand international cricketers – Jeff made his debut in 1983, while Martin, who was four years younger to him, made his debut in 1982. Jeff played in 39 Tests in what was a very successful period for the Kiwi side, but it was younger brother Martin who achieved legendary status over 77 Tests and 143 ODIs.
His 17 Test centuries remains a New Zealand record and he even led the Black Caps to the semi-finals of the 1992 World Cup.