He was a productive and aggressive batsman for New Zealand, touring England in 1937 and 1949 and captaining the latter team, still regarded as one of the finest New Zealand has had.
The Fortyniners drew the test series and lost just one match on tour.
Hadlee followed his playing career with a lengthy career as an administrator, serving as national selector, chairman and president.
He was a father figure to New Zealand cricket and is also the father of
Richard Hadlee, the world record breaking bowler and the best strike bowler New Zealand has had.
Two other sons, Barry and Dayle, also played cricket for New Zealand.