SURAT THANI: No foul play is suspected in the death of Australian cricket great Shane Warne on Thailand's southern resort island, police said on Saturday.
"No foul play was suspected at the scene based on our investigation," a Thai police officer told AFP.
The 52-year-old - a larger-than-life character whose tally of 708 Test wickets has been surpassed only by fellow spinner Muttiah Muralitharan - was found unresponsive at Samujana Villas on Koh Samui on Friday.
Warne's management had released a brief statement on Friday evening that the Australian cricket legend died after suffering a suspected heart attack.
“Shane was found unresponsive in his villa and despite the best efforts of medical staff, he could not be revived,” the statement said.
His death has sparked an outpouring of grief from fellow cricketers, celebrities and politicians.
Rolling stones lead singer Mick Jagger:
"I'm so saddened by the sudden death of Shane Warne. He brought such joy to the game and was the greatest spin bowler ever."
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison:
"He was very kind, and he was such a character that was, I think, what Australians loved about him as well. I mean, he knew he wasn't perfect. His life was full of great achievements, but also regrets, and he carried them the same way with an honesty and a humility about it. I think people could see a lot of themselves in Shane in that way ... but his dedication and professionalism and talent and, you know, as a cricketer that was just unrivalled, he was extraordinary."
Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley:
"Shane was one of the most talented and charismatic cricketers we have ever witnessed. He loved cricket, had an extraordinarily astute understanding of the game and his influence and legacy will last for as long as it is played."
Australia Captain Pat Cummins:
"Shane was a once-in-a-century cricketer and his achievements will stand for all time, but apart from the wickets he took and the games he helped Australia win, what he did was draw so many people to the sport.
"So many of us in the playing group grew up idolising him and fell in love with this great sport as a result, while many of our support staff either played with him or against him.
"It has been a terrible couple of days for Australian cricket with the passing of Rod Marsh and now Shane."
England Captain Joe Root
"My experience of Shane was someone that also loved the game of cricket. He was always a joy to be around and gave so much energy to the sport.
"As a kid growing up, he was a massive idol of mine. Someone you wanted to emulate the way he could win a game on his own, his skill level was incredible. To have had the opportunity to get to know him a little bit it was deeply saddening to hear the news."
India Great Sachin Tendulkar
"Will miss you, Warnie. There was never a dull moment with you around, on or off the field. Will always treasure our on-field duels & off field banter. You always had a special place for India & Indians had a special place for you.
"Gone too young!"
