Shane Warne's memorial service is on Wednesday. Here's what you need to know about tickets, performances and how to watch

Almost a month after the sudden death of cricket legend Shane Warne at age 52, his contributions on and off the cricket pitch will be publicly celebrated in the heart of Melbourne, at the MCG, in front of tens of thousands of fans.

Those closest to the spin bowler farewelled Warne at a private service earlier this month. Those wishing to pay their respects can now watch or attend a state memorial service on Wednesday.

Extra tickets have been released and more details have emerged about the high-profile cast of friends who will take part in the public service.

The service will be at the MCG, home to some of Warne's greatest cricketing triumphs.

The gates of the MCG are due to open about 5.30pm for a 7pm start, and the state memorial service is scheduled to run for about two hours.

A stage will be set up on the grounds of the MCG and upwards of 40,000 people are expected to fill the stadium's stands.

The service will feature performances, tributes and reflections recognising Warne's big personality and charisma as well as his enormous contributions as a cricketer.

A long and impressive list of high-profile people will take part in the service, but that doesn't mean everyone will be there in person.

Some guests and performers will appear either via live video links or in pre-recorded segments.

The rolling out of the red carpet for Shane Warne was a natural consequence of his immense talent on the cricket pitch. But behind the scenes, he forged deep and real friendships with some of the world's biggest names.

Musical entertainment will be a huge part of the service, with performances from those Warne counted among his friends including Elton John, Chris Martin, Robbie Williams and Ed Sheeran.

Local acts will include Anthony Callea and