Dennis Brian Close, born on February 24, 1931 in Rawdon, and died September 13, 2015, he was an English cricketer, the youngest man ever to play Test cricket for England.
The left-hander made his debut at 18 years and 149 days against New Zealand at Old Trafford in 1949, and went on to play 22 Tests.
Close was unbeaten in his seven games as captain, leading a side that included names such as Geoff Boycott and Colin Cowdrey.
The famously brave batsman also captained his county to four county championship titles. Yorkshire confirmed Close’s death the previous day in a statement on Monday morning. It read: “It is with the deepest regret that Yorkshire County Cricket Club announce the death of Brian Close, CBE, one of Yorkshire and England’s greatest ever captains and one of the game’s most courageous players.”
“In addition to his outstanding cricket career, Brian remained fully committed to Yorkshire until the end, being a life member of the club and president from 2008-10. He was also a popular former president of the Yorkshire CCC Players’ Association. He leaves a widow, Vivien, and a son and a daughter.”
Brian Close died at age 84 on September 13, 2015.