Shane Warne's arrival greeted by Press gathering
Shane Warne's arrival at the County Ground, Southampton was greeted by a large gathering of television, radio and newspaper journalists
Vic Isaacs
18-Apr-2000
Shane Warne's arrival at the County Ground, Southampton was greeted by a large gathering of television, radio and newspaper journalists. Some likened it to the arrival of Kevin Keegan the footballer to Southampton in 1981.
Flanked by Robin Smith (captain), Michael Cohen (Shane Warne's manager), Brian Ford (Hampshire CCC - Chairman) and Team manager Tim Tremlett, Warne in good spirits despite the overnight flight from South Africa, answered questions about joining Hampshire.
Some journalists tried to take the topic away from Hampshire by talking of The bribery scandal in cricket asking his views, but with the skilful manouvering by the chairman the subject was turned back to the club.
Warne told the gathering how much he was looking forward to playing for Hampshire in what promised to be a super season for the club, especially with the depth of talent within the club.
Asked what the main influence was that attracted him to Hampshire, Warne mentioned that he had a lot of respect for captain Robin Smith. The pair had shared a bond of friendship despite the battles that had been fought in the Test arena. Robin had stressed that the spirit in the club was very good, and the game was not just about turning up, but of enjoying the season, the cricket and off the field.
Asked about the weather, and bowling on damp early season wickets, Warne stressed that he enjoyed the challenge and he was not there to make up the numbers but wanted to take wickets, and hopefully guide Hampshire to a trophy or two this season.
Warne even suggested that if things went well, he would even consider staying on. However Brian Ford stressed that with Australia touring in 2001 that would be unlikely.