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Warne to be 'sorely missed and never forgotten', say Hants

28/03/2008

Hampshire Cricket Club have thanked former captain Shane Warne for his long-standing service to the county after he announced his retirement yesterday.

The ex-Australia international, who has the second-highest number of Test wickets in history behind Sri Lanka spinner Muttiah Muralitharan, has been with Hampshire for eight seasons.

And the county's chairman Rod Bransgrove, who will announce a new captain in due course, said "living legend" Warne would be "sorely missed [and] never forgotten".

"Hampshire Cricket has been hugely privileged to have enjoyed [Warne's] unstinting loyalty," he said.

"The most effective and entertaining bowler of all time, Shane Warne was also a brilliant leader and strategist.

"As our captain, his influence was instrumental in the development of Hampshire into one of the country's top sides and he enriched the game wherever he played.

"I am sure that all our supporters will join us in, firstly, thanking Shane for his dedication and commitment and, secondly, wishing him and his family the best of wishes for the next phase of his life.

"Warnie will be sorely missed, never forgotten and always welcome at the Rose Bowl."

Warne's announce came yesterday after he said he would be unable to commit to a first-class cricket season because of other business opportunities and family commitments.

And Hampshire team manager Paul Terry, echoing Bransgrove's sentiments, said the club had been "extremely lucky" to have had Warne in the team for so long.

"He has been fantastic for the club with his incredible enthusiasm, drive and skill as captain," Terry stated.

"He will be missed considerably on the field as there has never been anyone better, but, most importantly, he will leave behind a host of friends that he has made through his kindness, generosity and loyalty."