Legendary Australian cricketer Shane Warne dies of ‘suspected heart attack’

March 4: Australia cricket legend Shane Warne has passed away of a suspected attack in Thailand. He was 52.

“Shane was found unresponsive in his villa and despite the best efforts of medical staff, he could not be revived,” Warne’s management confirmed in a statement to Australian media outlet Fox Sports. “The family requests privacy at this time and will provide further details in due course,” the statement added.

Warne played 145 Tests and 194 ODIs between 1992 and 2007 and took a combined 1001 wickets during his  storied international career. Post retirement, Warne famously guided Rajasthan Royals to a fairy-tale title win in the inaugural season of Indian Premier League in 2008 as their captain and coach. Warne was named as one of Wisden’s Five Cricketers of the Century for his unparalleled achievements in a 15-year career between 1992 and 2007.

For Australian cricket, this is the second devastating news in 24 hours with fellow great, Rod Marsh, also dying on Friday having suffered a major heart attack last week. Incidentally, Warne had condoled his demise in a tweet this morning.

“Sad to hear the news that Rod Marsh has passed. He was a legend of our great game & 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,” he had posted.

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