Canberra: Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne has passed away at the age of 52. He died of a suspected heart attack.
“Shane was found unresponsive in his villa and despite the best efforts of medical staff, he could not be revived,” Warne’s management said in a statement released to the Australian media outlet Fox Sports.
He represented Australia from 1992 to 2007.
The legendary spinner played 145 Test matches for the Australian team, while he had taken 708 wickets in the longest format of the game. He had also represented Australia in 194 One Day Internationals and taken 293 wickets.
Warne was credited for bowling the “bowl of the century” when he dismissed England batsman Mike Gatting in the 1993 Ashes.
Following the tragic incident, condolences started pouring in from all circles.
Pakistan’s all-format captain Babar Azam said that it was “hard to believe” the news.
“He literally inspired generations with his magical leg spin. You’ll forever be missed Shane Warne,” said Babar.
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi said that the “game of cricket has lost” a “university of leg-spin bowling”.
“I was inspired by his bowling from the start of my career and it was always a privilege to play against him,” tweeted Afridi.
Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag took to Twitter and wrote:
“Cannot believe it. One of the greatest spinners, the man who made spin cool, superstar Shane Warne is no more. Life is very fragile, but this is very difficult to fathom. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fans all around the world.”
“Sad day for Cricket! An iconic cricket player & mentor has left us. Deeply saddened by this news. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fans all around the world,” wrote Pakistani cricketer Yasir Shah.
