ICC stunned by Shane Warne's passing: 'He will be sorely missed'

The International Cricket Council (ICC) expressed their shock and sadness at the sudden passing of legendary Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne.

Warne passed away on Friday while on holiday in Thailand after suffering from a suspected heart attack.

He was 52.

ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said Warne's impact on and off the field would be remembered for generations.

“I was stunned to hear the news of Shane’s passing. He was a true legend of the game, who changed the landscape of cricket by reviving the art of leg-spin," said Allardice in a ICC press statement.

"His larger-than-life personality, extraordinary skill and immense cricketing intellect ensured fans were glued to their seats whenever he was involved in a game.

“His contribution off the field was also remarkable, where he shared his time and experiences so generously with young players, especially up and coming leg-spinners. He also established a successful career in the commentary box, where his insightful and forthright views on the game made him one of the first-choice commentators for broadcasters in most cricketing countries.

“He will be sorely missed, and our thoughts are with his family, friends and fans at this difficult time."

READ | 'Shocked and stunned': Cricket mourns Shane Warne, 'the greatest'

Warne made his Test debut in 1992 against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground and had an illustrious 15-year career that ended in 2007.

He played in 145 Tests, finishing with 708 wickets and took more wickets than any other bowler in Ashes cricket, with a tally that stood at 195.

Warne, who helped Australia win the 1999 Cricket World Cup title, also appeared in 194 ODI appearances with 293 scalps.

The Australian great was inducted in the ICC Hall of Fame in 2013 and