'Bravest short leg ever'

"He was also very brave as a fielder at forward short leg in the days before players were like Michelin men with all their protection. It takes them ten minutes to get ready nowadays but Closey just wore a box, if anything at all."
Ray Illingworth, Close's England and Yorkshire team-mate

"His toughness was legendary. The mere fact that England thought Close, 45 years old, was the right man to come back to face West Indies in 1976 with the four-man pace attack shows you what they thought of him. Not just the toughest batsman [I bowled to], one of the toughest people around in the game."
Former West Indies fast bowler Michael Holding

"Vale Brian Close... my Somerset captain 1972... great guy... bravest short leg ever... drove me around England for two seasons... learnt so much."
Former Australia legspinner Kerry O'Keefe

"Such a sad day. He was a true inspiration to all of us. Thanks Brian for helping me as a kid growing up at Yorkshire. I once had a lbw problem. Closey, aged 60, came into the nets and batted without pads. 'Only way young man you will sort your problem.'"
Former England captain Michael Vaughan

"He led from the front, and I thought he was a magnificent captain. We have lost a true legend of the game."
Former umpire and Yorkshire batsman Dickie Bird

"The best captain a young player could ever have wished for "Brian Close"! Myself & IVA owe you so much! RIP Closey"
Former England allrounder Ian Botham

"Very sad the hear the passing of Brian Close. A cricket legend who's fearless approach and bravery will always be remembered."
England and Yorkshire batsman Joe Root

"R.I.P to a Yorkshire great Brian Close. His toughness was legendary, his talents immense! Will always remember bowling to Closey in the indoor nets as he did his pre-season preparation to captain the YCC Academy at 65 years!"
Former England and Yorkshire fast bowler Matthew Hoggard

"Sad to hear passing of Brian Close - fortunate to meet him many times, a true Yorkshire legend! Thoughts with his family and many friends."
Australia coach Darren Lehmann

"Inspirational for us youngsters in the 1970's. Hard as nails, great character #RIPClosey"
Former England wicketkeeper Jack Russell

Was once in a Roller with Brian Close. Went over a speed bump too quick. His head went clean through the roof upholstery #hardman Closey RIP
Former England opener Alan Butcher