Shane Warne. (Photo Source: Clive Mason/Getty Images)
A special tribute is being organised for legendary Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne during this year’s Boxing Day Test between Australia and Pakistan. Warne passed away in March 2022, aged 52, after suffering a suspected heart attack.
Free heart tests will be conducted around the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground from days one to four as an homage for Warne. As many as 23 medical-grade heath stations will be placed around the ground and fans will be encouraged to take the four-minute test.
Cricket Australia (CA) and Shane Warne Legacy (SWL) are working in tandem to create awareness among the people regarding heart health. Last year, when Australia faced South Africa in the Boxing Day Test, Warne was given a special tribute as the game was paused at 3:50 PM, a symbol of Warne’s Test cap number 350. This year, however, the fans have been requested to wear floppy hats to the stadium on December 26. At 3:50 PM, they will be asked to tip their headwear simultaneously to acknowledge the Victorian stalwart.
“We’re delighted to partner with the Shane Warne Legacy for an initiative that will significantly raise awareness about the importance of heart health,” Cricket Australia Chief Executive Nick Hockley said.
“Shane is greatly missed here in Australia and around the world, and we are grateful to the Shane Warne Legacy and the Warne family in partnering with us to help make a positive difference in his honour. I encourage everyone to come along to the NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test and take part in the Shane Warne Legacy Heart Tests and to always seek the advice of your medical professional on this and other health issues,” he said.
SWL Chief Executive Helen Nolan was delighted with the collaboration with CA, and getting the opportunity to pay homage to Warne. She mentioned how important the four-minute test could turn out to be for the people.
“This partnership holds immense significance for us and the entire Warne family. It provides a special gathering place at the iconic MCG, allowing cricket enthusiasts and the broader public to come together and honour Shane during one of his favourite weeks of the year – on the grounds he often fondly referred to as his ‘office’. Through our partnership with Cricket Australia, we not only create a space to get a free ‘Shane Warne Legacy heart test’ but also offer the broader public an opportunity to come together, reflect on Shane’s life, acknowledge the significance he held for each individual, and collectively pay respect to him,” Nolan said.
“Shane would have encouraged everyone to “have a crack” and complete this simple screening and awareness test. Who knows, it could help save your life,” she concluded.