Shane Warne’s family speaks of ‘never-ending nightmare’ after cricket icon’s death

Shane Warne’s family has broken its silence following the untimely death of the Australian cricket icon.

Warne died on the Thai island of Koh Samui early on Saturday morning AEDT at the age of 52.

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He was staying at the five-star Samujana Villas resort with four friends when he was found unresponsive in a bedroom.

Local authorities are in the process of carrying out an autopsy but police say there are no indications of foul play.

On Monday evening, Warne’s family broke its silence, saying learning of his death was the beginning of a “never-ending nightmare”.

“To find words to adequately express our sadness is an impossible task for us and looking to a future without Shane is inconceivable, hopefully the mountain of happy memories we all have will help us cope with our ongoing grief,” his parents Keith and Brigitte said.

“Over the past few days Shane has been honoured with the family being offered a state memorial for Shane by Premier Dan Andrews which the family have gratefully accepted.

“The Premier and Minister for Sport and Major Events, Martin Pakula have also advised that the Great Southern Stand at the Melbourne Cricket Ground will be renamed the S.K Warne Stand. We sincerely offer our thanks to the state government and the MCG trust for this honour.

“We would also like to acknowledge the support of Prime Minister Scott Morrison for his kind words both personally and on behalf of the country, as everyone knows Shane was an extremely proud Victorian and Australian.

“Brigitte and I are most grateful for the many messages of love and support received over the past few days and thank one and all