A legend. A genius. One of the greatest of all time. Former Australian international cricketer has died of a suspected heart attack in Thailand, aged 52.
“Shane was found unresponsive in his villa and despite the best efforts of medical staff, he could not be revived,” confirmed a statement from Warne’s management to Fox Sports.
“The family requests privacy at this time and will provide further details in due course.
Warne was holidaying with four people in a luxury villa on Koh Samui, according to Royal Thai Police. His body has been sent to Koh Samui hospital where an autopsy will be carried out.
“Warnie”, as he was fondly known, who is regarded as one of the greatest cricketers in history, rejuvenated the technique of spin bowling and took more Ashes and Test wickets than any other Australian before his retirement in 2007.
Tributes have been pouring in as the cricket world and international sporting legends reel with shock at Warne’s untimely passing.
Legends of the game pay tribute to Shane Warne
pic.twitter.com/y3JavbbrJS
— The Cricketer (@TheCricketerMag) March 4, 2022
Lost for words. RIP Shane Warne. One of the greats of the game. Absolutely shocking news. Condolences to his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/zEWP0tKSII
— hardik pandya (@hardikpandya7) March 4, 2022
The ball that changed the art of leg-spin forever #Cricket #ShaneWarne pic.twitter.com/nDqcQWfH1C
— Saj Sadiq (@SajSadiqCricket) March 4, 2022
“Growing up he was a massive idol of mine and someone you wanted to emulate.”
Captain Joe Root pays tribute to Shane Warne pic.twitter.com/vufgKn7M4H
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) March 4, 2022
Warne’s sudden death comes just hours after he tweeted his own condolences following the passing of fellow cricket great Rod Marsh who died in hospital aged 74 less than 24 hours before.
Sad to hear the news that Rod Marsh has passed. He was a legend of our great game & an inspiration to so many young boys & girls. Rod cared deeply about cricket & gave so much-especially to Australia & England players. Sending lots & lots of love to Ros & the family. RIP mate
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) March 4, 2022
Warne is widely regarded as one of the finest cricketers in history, claiming 708 Test wickets at 25.41 in 145 matches between 1992 and 2007 – more international wickets than any other Australian.
Warne was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2013 and was named one of Wisden’s Five Cricketers of the Century, alongside Sir Donald Bradman, Sir Garfield Sobers, Sir Jack Hobbs and Sir Vivian Richards.
The leg spinner featured in Australia’s 1999 World Cup triumph, winning six Ashes series.
There will never be anyone like Shane Warne pic.twitter.com/O38WuowKID
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) March 4, 2022
One of the most influential figures in Australian sport, Warne’s post-cricket presence stretched to charity, commentary, poker, gin and fragrances.
He served as a commentator and broadcaster for Australia’s Channel 9 and Fox Cricket.
Warne’s social friendship circle contained rock stars such as Elton John, footballers and politicians, and was famously engaged to film star Elizabeth Hurley in 2011, before the relationship broke down after three years.
The world-famous cricket player is survived by his children Jackson, Brooke and Summer, mother and father Bridgette and Keith, and brother Jason.
One of the greatest of all-time.
A legend. A genius.
You changed Cricket.
RIP Shane Warne
pic.twitter.com/YX91zmssoT
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) March 4, 2022
Read also Shane Warne dies of suspected heart attack in Thailand aged 52
