Australian cricket legend Warne dead at 52 from heart attack

Australian cricketer Shane Warne, one of the finest leg-spin bowlers of all time whose talent and personality transcended the sport, has died aged 52, his family said on Friday.

Warne, who ended his spell-binding international playing career that stretched from 1992 to 2007 with a remarkable 708 test wickets, died on Friday from a suspected heart attack in Koh Samui, Thailand, his family confirmed in a statement published by the Telegraph newspaper in Sydney.

“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.”

His death comes hours after another former Australian cricket great, wicket-keeper Rod Marsh died on Friday at the age of 74.

Current Australia batsman David Warner wrote on Instagram: “Two legends of our game have left us too soon. I’m lost for words, and this is extremely sad. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Marsh and Warne family. I just can not believe it. #rip, you will both be missed.”

Warne’s last post on Twitter, 12 hours before his death was reported was a tribute to Marsh.

“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.”

After ending his test career, Warne played in the Indian Premier League and other Twenty20 competitions before retiring from all international cricket in 2013, but continued to be involved in the game as a broadcaster.