PIERS Morgan has led tributes to cricket legend Shane Warne, who died suddenly today aged 52.
SE columnist described the Australian sporting icon as a “genius cricketer, supreme entertainer and loyal friend” following his suspected heart attack.
Cricket legend Shane Warne has died at the aged of 52
Piers Morgan described Warne as a ‘genius cricketer and loyal friend’
In an emotional tweet, Piers said: “Absolutely devastated to hear that
Shane Warne has died from a heart attack aged just 52.
“He was a genius cricketer, a supreme entertainer, a fantastic bloke and a great loyal friend for many years.
“Just gutting news. RIP Warnie, I loved every minute in your company.”
Warne was considered one of the finest bowlers of all time and is credited with reviving the art of leg-spin.
His 708 Test wicket record has only been surpassed by contemporary rival and fellow spinner Muttiah Muralitharan.
He is believed to have suffered a heart attack in his villa in Koh Samui, Thailand, and sadly could not be revived.
Confirming his passing, his management company said in a statement: “It is with great sadness we advise that Shane Keith Warne passed away of a suspected heart attack in Koh Samui, Thailand today, Friday 4 March.”
Former players and pundits have rushed to pay tribute to Warne, applauding his contribution to cricket.
Ex-England cricket captain Michael Vaughan said: “Love ya King.”
While Gary Lineker tweeted: “Terribly saddened and shocked to hear the news that Shane Warne has died.
“The greatest spin bowler of all time. Can’t quite believe it. RIP Shane.”
Follow our Shane Warne blog for live updates on his death
The Aussie was revered around the globe as one of the game’s greatest players, having retired from all formats of cricket in 2013.
It was with his national side Australia where he enjoyed his most famous successes on the cricket pitch.
He took his 700th and final Test Wicket during The Ashes in 2006, before retiring from international duty after the series was over.
Since then, he’s regularly worked as a commentator and cricket pundit on TV, signing a deal with Sky Sports in 2009.
Warne had three children with ex-wife Simone Callahan before they divorced in 2005.
He then went on to date and get engaged to English actress and model Elizabeth Hurley, though they called things off in 2013.
Piers said he ‘loved every minute of Warne’s company’
Australia’s Warne celebrates taking the wicket of England’s Ashley Giles
