Legendary Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne has died aged 52.
Warne’s management released a brief statement that he passed away in Koh Samui, Thailand, 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,” the statement read. “The family requests privacy at this time and will provide further details in due course.”
Warne is widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers to have played the game, having retired as Test cricket’s second highest wicket-taker. Warne played 145 Tests and 194 ODIs between 1992 and 2007 for Australia and took a combined total of 1001 wickets.
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. He moved on to a successful broadcasting career as commentator and expert.
Tributes have poured in from cricketers, sportspersons and celebrities around the globe condoling Warne's passing.
The news is the second devastating blow for Australian cricket within 24 hours with fellow great, Rod Marsh, also dying having suffered a major heart attack last week.