Mark Taylor (Twitter)
In a newly-released episode of The Willow Talk, a show crafted by esteemed sports commentator, Adam Peacock, and former Australian wicketkeeper-batter, Brad Haddin, erstwhile Australian skipper, Mark Taylor, who appeared as a guest, shared and recounted a particularly humorous exchange of banter between the legendary Australian leg-spinner, Shane Warne and ex-South African all-rounder, Brian McMillan.
When asked about the most memorable one-liner he’s ever encountered, Mark recounted a notable exchange between Warne and McMillan during the fourth innings of the third Test in the 1993/94 series between Australia and South Africa. In that pivotal moment, with the Proteas chasing 321 to secure the series and Australia desperately needing to bowl them out to salvage a draw, the tension on the field was palpable, especially when only a couple of wickets were remaining with McMillan at the crease. Warne struggling to get him out, despite “Big Mac” not being able to pick the leggie.
At this juncture, Mark recounted that Warne announced to McMillan the specific variation of his forthcoming delivery before executing it. Remarkably, even with this advanced notice, McMillan frequently failed to make contact with most of Warne’s offerings.
Watch the video below:
Eventually, after a few more overs with McMillan still holding his ground and Warne continuing to bowl, Mark recounted a particularly amusing moment. McMillan, in his typical burly manner, advanced down the pitch and issued a playful yet intimidating threat to Warne in his deep, booming voice. This unexpected move left Warne visibly shaken, a reaction that had the entire podcast panel, including former Australian Women’s cricketer, Alyssa Healy, bursting into laughter.
“Hey Warnie! Lots of people die in South Africa everyday. One more will make no difference (referring to when Australia would subsequently tour South Africa in the coming weeks),” asserted McMillan.
Following that remark, Mark, who was fielding nearby, noticed Warne visibly trembling with fear. Concerned, he approached Warne at his run-up to check on him, only for Warne to anxiously inquire whether McMillan had genuinely meant his intimidating comment.
“Do you reckon he means it?” questioned a quivering Warne.
Also Check: When Shane Warne’s brilliance read Brendon McCullum’s shot in BBL match and bowled him out
Warne ultimately got the better of McMillan, dismissing him for a mere four runs off 38 deliveries, which eventually contributed to a commanding 191-run victory for the Aussies.