Shane Warne, the best leg-spinner of all time and an Australian cricket star, has died at the age of 52.
In the early hours of Saturday (AEDT), Warne’s management issued a brief statement stating that he died of a suspected heart attack in Koh Samui, Thailand.
“Despite the best efforts of medical staff, Shane was found lifeless in his villa and could not be resuscitated,” the statement continues.
“At this time, the family begs privacy and will share additional information as soon as possible.”
The announcement is the second huge setback for Australian cricket in less than 24 hours, following the death of fellow legend Rod Marsh on Friday after suffering a massive heart attack last week.
Warne, who is affectionately known as ‘Warnie’ and is revered by millions around the world, is widely regarded as the finest bowler to ever play the game.
His illustrious international career extended 15 years and saw him take 708 Test wickets, the highest by an Australian and second only to Muttiah Muralitharan all-time.
Warne made his Test debut at the SCG in 1992 and went on to become a pivotal role in one of Australia’s greatest spells of sustained domination in cricket history.
Between 1993 and 2003, he was a member of Australia’s World Cup-winning team in 1999 and five Ashes-winning teams.
