Rod Bransgrove issued a statement following the devastating news of former Club Captain and icon Shane Warne’s death.
The influence Shane Warne had on this Club between 2000 and 2007 cannot be overstated. Players, members, management, and staff are all in mourning following the tragic news of his untimely death.
Here at Hampshire Cricket, Warney had formed many lasting connections, and I consider myself fortunate to be one of them. Many others, including me, will undoubtedly be trying to digest the devastating news and come to grips with his death.
Shane Warne is the finest spin bowler in history, in my opinion. He was also a skilled strategist and an inspiring leader. He was certain that any match could be won from any position, and he was able to prove this to himself on several occasions. Furthermore, as Hampshire Captain, he persuaded the players to believe in his ideology and created Hampshire Cricket as a prominent force in professional cricket in all formats.
He was competitive, funny, cheeky, and charming both on and off the field. “Just because I occasionally do foolish things doesn’t mean I’m stupid,” he used to remark, and he couldn’t have been more self-aware.
Shane Warne has left an indelible mark on the world in his tragically little time here, transcending his sport and establishing himself as a global hero. All who knew him will be greatly missed, and my thoughts are with Keith, Bridgette, Brooke, Jackson, and Summer right now.