Shane Warne passes away: In what is truly shocking news, legendary Australian cricketer Shane Warne has breathed his last on Friday, at the age of 52. One of the greatest wicket-takers of all time, Warne suffered a suspected heart attack while in Thailand as per a statement by his family.
“Shane was found unresponsive in his villa and despite the best efforts of medical staff, he could not be revived. The family requests a privacy at this time and will provide further details in due course,” his family said in a statement.
Warner enjoyed a legendary career and is hailed as one of the finest spinners of all time. The late Australian enjoyed a competitive rivalry with Sri Lankan counterpart Muttiah Muralitharan, with the duo being the highest wicket-takers in the history of Test cricket.
Shane Warne passes away: Muttiah Muralitharan shocked by ‘rival’ Shane Warne’s death – “52 is no age to die”
Despite a long-standing rivalry on the field, Muttiah Muralitharan was devastated to hear the news of Shane Warne’s death late on Friday. The duo, who redefined the art of spin bowling, had some famous clashes over the years while representing their countries, but bonded over the years playing and coaching ‘legend’ games and franchise cricket.
Speaking to Sportstar after news of Shane Warne’s passing broke out, Muttiah Muralitharan expressed his absolute shock at the situation. He said, “It is shocking and unbelievable. It is very painful for the entire fraternity and fans around the world. It is a big loss.”
While they enjoyed a fierce rivalry, the Sri Lankan cleared the air saying that it was all media work and the fact that they were good friends off the pitch. Muralitharan added, “Media made it more competitive. We were playing for each other’s country and the target was always to bring out our best. We were competitive on the field but off the pitch, we were really good friends.”
Shane Warne passes away: Muttiah Muralitharan shocked by ‘rival’ Shane Warne’s death – “52 is no age to die”
Such has been their impact in their respective country’s cricket and the world that Cricket Australia and Sri Lanka Cricket Board named the Test series between the two sides the Warne–Muralitharan Trophy in the duo’s honour.
After retirement, both Muralitharan and Warne played several legends tournaments overseas and their bonding only grew stronger over the years. They would even meet during the Indian Premier League (IPL) where Muralitharan was part of the coaching staff for Sunrisers Hyderabad, while Warne was associated with Rajasthan Royals.
He added, “He lived the life he wanted to. That’s the biggest thing. I am saying it again, 52 is not the age to die.”
Shane Warne passes away: Muttiah Muralitharan shocked by ‘rival’ Shane Warne’s death – “52 is no age to die”
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