On March 4, the former Australia leg-spinner Shane Warne died due to a heart attack in Thailand. Before his death, Warne had travelled to the country for holidays along with his friends. After his death, an autopsy was done to determine whether he died naturally or not. The report confirmed that the deceased died due to heart-related diseases. After confirmation, the legend’s body was flown to Melbourne, his hometown.
The Victorian State Government after the tragedy announced that the 145-Test veteran will get a state funeral on March 30.
Meanwhile, The Hundred had also announced that the player drafts for the men’s and women’s teams will be organized on the same day. However, the announcement was done before the 1999 World Cup winner’s death.
Now, with the state funeral clashing with the drafts, the tournament governing council has decided to postpone the event to April 5. Notably, the second-highest wicket-taker in Tests of all time was the head coach of the London Spirits men’s team last year. The team finished last in the eight-team competition with six losses and one win.
Meanwhile, The Hundred issued a statement saying that Warne was the most loved part of the tournament last year and will be hugely missed. The second edition of the league will start on August 3 this year, with the final to be played on September 3.
”This (April 5) is a week later than previously advertised due to Shane Warne state funeral taking place on Wednesday 30 March,” a statement from The Hundred read.
”Shane was a much-loved part of The Hundred and played an important role in launching the competition as Head Coach of London Spirit’s men’s team. He will be hugely missed by everyone involved in the competition,” it added.
