Shane Warne Boxing Day tribute: Players and fans come together at MCG for moving ceremony

Liam O'Loughlin

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Shane Warne Boxing Day tribute: Players and fans come together at MCG for moving ceremony image

The tributes for Shane Warne have flown in during the Boxing Day Test, with fans and players paying their respects to the legendary leg-spinner.

For the first time since his passing earlier this year, Australia would play a Test at Warne's home ground in Melbourne and there were some truly special moments.

Fans in the crowd were urged to wear floppy hats and zinc cream, while the players from both sides all did the same and were involved in a special ceremony before play began which included a video tribute. 

Warne's name and Baggy Green number also were painted on the MCG outfield, while the stand named in his honour was filled with plenty of eager supporters. 

MORE: Aussie skipper explains Boxing Day selection call

South African players got in on the action during their warm-ups with their floppy hats, while the commentary panel on Fox Cricket - a place where Warne spent much of his recent years - all recounted stories from the icon's career. 

The channel also replayed Warne's brilliant Boxing Day speech prior to the 2021 edition, which saw the Aussies defeat old rivals England. 

Australia won the toss and will bowl first at the MCG, in what will be the 100th Test match in the career of David Warner. 

Liam O'Loughlin

Liam O'Loughlin Photo

Liam has been with The Sporting News since 2019, helping lead both NRL and cricket content, as well as delving into the world of combat sports and NFL. A true rugby league tragic, he has spent the past 20 years playing, coaching and volunteering for his beloved junior club, Penshurst RSL. 

Away from work, Liam has a lifelong passion for all things pro wrestling and has travelled abroad to attend showcase events for WWE, AEW and NJPW.