Melbourne/New Delhi, Mar 4 (UNI): Australian cricket legend Shane Warne died of heart attack at the age of 52.
Warne, widely regarded as the greatest spinner, was in Koh Samui, Thailand. “Shane was found unresponsive in his villa and despite the best efforts of medical staff, he could not be revived,” read a statement issued by Warne’s management according to a Fox Sports report. “The family requests privacy at this time and will provide further details in due course.”
This is the second devastating blow for Australian cricket within 24 hours, with former wicketkeeper-batter Rod Marsh passing away on Friday after having suffered a heart attack last week. Warne took 708 Test wickets – the most ever by an Australian, and the second-most of all time behind Sri Lankan Muttiah Muralitharan.
The cricket fraternity around the world is in deep shock after hearing the news of Warne’s untimely demise. Indian skipper Rohit Sharma tweeted, “I am truly lost for words here, this is extremely sad. An absolute legend and champion of our game has left us. RIP Shane Warne… still can’t believe it.”
West Indies great Viv Richards said: “Unbelievable. I am shocked to the core. This can’t be true…Rest In Peace, Shane Warne. There are no words to describe what I feel right now. A huge loss for cricket.”
Shikhar Dhawan said, “Sad, speechless, and completely shocked. An incredible loss to cricket. I have no words. Thank you for everything you’ve done for the sport. Rest in Peace, Shane Warne. Sending my condolences to his loved ones.”
