Sri Lankan cricket fans have shown their appreciation for the late Shane Warne in a beautiful and meaningful way.
As the Australian team took on Sri Lanka in the first Test at the Galle stadium, the crowd paid tribute to the legendary cricketer with a large banner reading “Shane Warne Stand”.
This gesture has touched the hearts of Warne’s family, particularly his son Jackson, who expressed his gratitude on social media.
Warne’s Love Affair with Sri Lanka
Warne, who initially struggled with the food and culture in Sri Lanka, eventually fell in love with the region and its people.
He even helped raise $1 million to rebuild the Galle stadium after the devastating Boxing Day tsunami in 2004.
Alongside his friend and spin-bowling rival Muttiah Muralitharan, Warne visited the region and brought joy to the people.
As Warne once said, “I just wanted to help, and I said to Murali, what can I actually do?” Muralitharan’s response was that Warne’s presence alone would be a huge boost to the people, who adored him for his cricketing skills and charisma.
A Small but Poignant Gesture
The banner, which was placed on the historic Galle Fort on day one of the Test, was later moved to the small stand next to the Galle Cricket Club.
This small gesture has resonated with Warne’s family, who were already moved by the tribute paid to him at the MCG. Jackson Warne took to Instagram to share a video of the banner, saying, “This is a sign in honour of dad that the Sri Lankans have made for the Australia versus Sri Lanka Test… I think it’s awesome.”
He also noted that the colors of the banner, red, white, and black, were the same as those of the Legacy and the St Kilda Football Club, which his father supported.
The Cricket Community Comes Together
The video has received thousands of comments, with fans and celebrities alike paying their respects to Warne and his family.
Comedian Merrick Watts wrote, “That’s brilliant!”, while cricket fans praised the gesture, saying, “This is true respect amongst the game that we desperately need.”
The comments also highlighted the impact of Warne’s charity work in Sri Lanka, particularly during the Boxing Day tsunami, with one fan writing, “No one forgets your dad’s help during the Boxing Day tsunami devastation back in 2004. So grateful for that.”
Warne’s Legacy Lives On
Warne’s record of 37 Test wickets in Sri Lanka is still standing, but Nathan Lyon is closing in on the milestone.
As the Australian team continues to compete in the Warne-Muralitharan Trophy, it’s clear that Warne’s legacy will live on, both on and off the field.
With his family’s gratitude and the cricket community’s appreciation, it’s a fitting tribute to a true legend of the game.