[Watch] When Shane Warne's Epic 'Ball Of The Century' Announced His Arrival On Big Stage
Shane Warne celebrating Mike Gatting's wicket (X.com)
On March 4 last year, the cricketing world was mourning after learning that Shane Warne, the greatest leg-spinner in the game, had passed away from a "suspected heart attack from natural causes." The Australian would have turned 53 today (September 13) if he had been alive, and needless to say, he left the world way too early.
Claiming 708 Test wickets at a mere average of 25.41 is no laughing matter, and Warne did it with pure brilliance. In addition, he also took 293 wickets in 194 ODIs at 25.73 until taking retirement from international cricket in 2007.
There have been many highlights throughout Warne's illustrious career. But the one that really stands out was in June 1993, when a young Warnie managed to deceive Mike Gatting, the top England batsman at the time. The "ball of the century" label was later bestowed upon it.
Before the crucial match against England, Warne had only played in 11 Tests. He got off to a great start, but do not forget that he was about to bowl the first Ashes delivery. His first Test ball in England against Mike Gatting was pitched around the leg stump and sharply turned. Gatting attempted to defend it, but the unusual spin with a strong flight defeated him.
When the ball eventually broke the stumps, the Englishman was astounded by what he witnessed.
That was Warne's declaration of his aptitude. From that point forward, everything he touched turned into gold.
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