25 Oct 2018

Cricket: Shane Warne poacher turned gamekeeper

2:47 pm on 25 October 2018

The legendary leg spinner replaces former Australia wicketkeeper Rod Marsh, who is stepping down after six years' service.

The Lord's-based MCC has been the sole authority on the laws of cricket since it was founded in 1787.

The MCC's world cricket committee is comprised of former and current players and meets twice a year to discuss issues in the game.

Shane Warne meets himself and opposing captain Sachin Tendulkar (to publicise an MCC cricket match in 2014.

Shane Warne meets himself and opposing captain Sachin Tendulkar (to publicise an MCC cricket match in 2014. Photo: Photosport

"It is an honour to have been asked to be a member of the MCC World Cricket committee," Warne said in a statement.

"It is an extremely exciting time for cricket and I hope that I will have plenty to offer in discussion and debate."

The world cricket committee was formed in 2006 and has made recommendations that have resulted in changes such as the introduction of day-night test cricket, and the adoption of the decision review system (DRS) in the international game.

At its last meeting in August, the committee recommended that cricket adopt a "shot clock" to help speed up play.

Leg-spinner Warne took 708 wickets in 145 test matches for Australia and retired from all formats of the game in 2013.

He captained a Rest of the World XI against MCC at Lord's in 2014 and was made an honorary life member of the MCC in 2009.

"We're delighted to welcome Shane on to the committee," MCC world cricket committee chairman and former England captain Mike Gatting said.

"Obviously his profile in the world game is as big as they come and with his extensive experience, I am sure he will offer great insights into many different facets of the game."

-Reuters