There will never be another like you: Ricky Ponting's heartfelt tribute to Shane Warne
Ricky Ponting voiced his heartfelt tribute to late Shane Warne ahead of the former spinner's elevation to Legend status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame on Thursday (December 8).
Warne finished with 1,001 wickets across Test and ODI formats, while playing his last game in 2007. In this regard, Ponting spoke to Channel 7, and reckoned that Warne was the greatest spinner to play the game.
Both the cricketers met each other for the the first time in 1992 Cricket Academy at Adelaide. In the same year, Warne made his Test debut, while Ponting played his first international game three years later. They helped Australia to clinch the 1999, 2003 and 2007 World Cup titles and also dominate the Ashes against England.
Ponting, who is also a member of the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, thinks Warne's achievements, passion and knowledge were second to none.
“Shane Keith Warne. For me, the greatest ever spin bowler to have played the game of cricket. The ultimate competitor. Star power. Never beaten. Reliable. Accepting and caring. Infectious smile. The life of the party.
"His achievements, passion and knowledge of the game was something to behold. Warnie, there will never be another like you. Man, myth and now legend. I love you, mate.”
Further, Ponting revealed to Matthew Hayden during Australia versus West Indies Test broadcast, that he still hears Warne’s voice in cricket replays.
Warne, 52, passed away earlier this year in March due to heart attack. He will become the only fifth cricketer to receive the prestigious honour at the Sport Australia hall of fame on Thursday night.
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