MCG’s emotional tribute to ‘legendary’ Warne

It’s the first Test at the iconic venue since Warne died suddenly in March at the age of 52.

The proud Victorian – Australia’s greatest ever wicket taker – celebrated some of his biggest career highlights at his home ground.

He took an Ashes hat-trick in the 1994 Test, and then claimed his 700th Test wicket there 12 years later.

On Monday, players from both Australia and South Africa donned floppy white wide-brim hats – which Warne famously wore – during warm-up.

Painted on the MCG surface in big white letters is “Warne 350” – 350 being his Australian playing number.

And at 3.50pm on Boxing Day the MCG will play a montage of Warne highlights on the big screen.

Melbourne’s Wurundjeri elder Aunty Joy became emotional when paying tribute to Warne and his former teammate Andrew Symonds, who tragically died in a single-vehicle car crash in May.

“I want to pay a special tribute to our beautiful brother Andrew Symonds, who is no longer with us but is resting with his ancestors,” Aunty Joy told the MCG.

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“Today we celebrate the legendary Shane Warne. To his family and friends, which is each and every one of you here today, what a legend.

“It is a wonderful opportunity it is that I have to say that this will always be his resting place here on Wurundjeri country.”

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