Cricket world in shock as Australian spin legend Shane Warne passes away

Former Australian spin legend Shane Warne has passed away in Thailand, leaving the cricket world in shock and mourning.

The 52-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest in the morning.

“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.

Earlier today, he expressed his feelings over the death of Rod Marsh, another former Australian cricketer who breathed his last on Friday having suffered a major heart attack last week.

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. RIP mate❤️

— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) March 4, 2022

Cricketers from all over the world are mourning the death of Warne -- the greatest leg-spinner of all-time.

Find it hard to believe. Such a devastating loss for the cricket world. He literally inspired generations with his magical leg spin. You'll forever be missed #ShaneWarne. My heart and prayers goes to his family, friends, and fans. #legend pic.twitter.com/pigrD785gC

— Babar Azam (@babarazam258) March 4, 2022

- Your contribution to cricket will always be remembered #ShaneWarne 🏏 (1969-2022) pic.twitter.com/xzgfxhrhYz

— Hassan Ali 🇵🇰 (@RealHa55an) March 4, 2022

Life is so unpredictable. Cricket will surely miss your presence. Thinking about his family and friends. You'll remain in prayers of many. #ShaneWarne #legend

— Shaheen Shah Afridi (@iShaheenAfridi) March 4, 2022

It’s going to take a long time to get over this loss. Legendary #ShaneWarne is not with us anymore. pic.twitter.com/r3GGYVvuG2

— Shoaib Akhtar (@shoaib100mph) March 4, 2022

- Shocked to hear the news of legendary #ShaneWarne passing away... pic.twitter.com/r5SxwUFjXm

— Shoaib Malik 🇵🇰 (@realshoaibmalik) March 4, 2022

I am shocked and extremely sad to hear about the sudden death of my friend Warnie… he has always been in touch and always helpful.. apart from an iconic bowler he was a great entertainer… my condolences to the family and friends .. rest in peace my friend .

— Wasim Akram (@wasimakramlive) March 4, 2022

https://twitter.com/SAfridiOfficial/status/1499756145371668485

Cannot believe it.
One of the greatest spinners, the man who made spin cool, superstar Shane Warne is no more.
Life is very fragile, but this is very difficult to fathom. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fans all around the world. pic.twitter.com/f7FUzZBaYX

— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) March 4, 2022

Sad day for Cricket!
An iconic cricket player & mentor has left us.
Deeply saddened by this news.

My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fans all around the world 💔#RIPLegend#ShaneWarne pic.twitter.com/1msDev2JoF

— Yasir Shah (@Shah64Y) March 4, 2022

Warnie's stellar international career spanned across 15 years and saw him take 708 Test wickets — the most ever for an Australian, and the second-most of all time behind only Muttiah Muralitharan.

He was a member of Australia’s World Cup win in 1999, and five Ashes-winning sides beween 1993 and 2003.