Shane Warne joins MCC World Cricket Committee

Shane Warne, who is considered as one of the biggest names to play the game, has accepted the invitation to join the committee, which meets twice a year to discuss the most important issues in the game and acts as an independent voice in world cricket. 

The ex-Australian cricketer was the first bowler to reach 700 Test wickets, with his tally of 708 standing second on the all-time list.

He officially retired from all formats of the game in 2013 following stints in Australia’s Big Bash and the Indian Premier League, but returned to captain the Rest of the World XI against MCC at Lord’s to celebrate the Bicentenary of the Ground in 2014. He was made an Honorary Life Member of MCC in 2009.

Warne joined the Committee as a replacement to  fellow Australian Rod Marsh.

Marsh recently left the committee after serving it since 2012.

Warne told the MCC website: “It is an honour to have been asked to be a member of the MCC World Cricket committee. It is an extremely exciting time for cricket and I hope that I will have plenty to offer in discussion and debate.  I look forward to contributing to the work of the committee.” 

Mike Gatting, Chairman of the MCC World Cricket committee, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Shane on to the committee. Obviously his profile in the world game is as big as they come and with his extensive experience, I am sure he will offer great insights into many different facets of the game.

“I’d also like to pay tribute to Rod Marsh, who leaves the committee after six years. He has provided valuable contributions across a variety of areas and we thank him for his efforts.”