Sidney, Europe Brief News – A large emotional memorial was held in commemoration of the cricket’s first rockstar following the tragic passing of Shane Warne.
The service, held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, remembered Warne who died suddenly aged 52 this month.
More than 50,000 gathered at the stage where Warne took his 700th Test wicket and also the ground he took a hat-trick against England – to farewell the Australian cricket legend at his home.
Chants of “Warnie, Warnie” echoed throughout the MCG just moments after the Shane Warne Stand unveiled over Bay 13 in the previously known Great Southern Stand.
His father, brother and three children all gave moving speeches in front of thousands of people in attendance.
Elton John performed Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me via video. There were similar musical performances from Ed Sheeran, Robbie Williams and Coldplay’s Chris Martin.
Australians Kylie Minogue and Hugh Jackman were among the other celebrities to pay tribute.
Warne’s father Keith said the former Australia international packed more into his life “than most people would in two lifetimes”.
He added: “Shane said of himself, ‘I smoked, I drank, and I played a little cricket’.
“Mate, your mother and I can’t imagine a life without you. You have been taken too soon and broke our hearts.”
Warne’s daughter Summer said. “It has been exactly 26 days since you went to heaven and I miss you more than anything in the whole world.
“I would do anything just to have one more of your cuddles and to hear your voice tell me how proud of me you were. And how much you loved me.
“I know you will be forever watching me and be by my side the whole time.”
