Warne denies World Cup return

Shane Warne, the Australia legspinner, has quashed rumours of a ODI return by confirming his retirement. He said he is more intent on preserving himself rather than touring the West Indies for the 2007 World Cup.

In an interview with Fox Sports Warne said: "At this stage, I'm retired. I'm 37 later this year and I think I know my game pretty well. I know I can't bowl for hours in the nets like I used to because when I wake-up I won't be able to move the next day."

Warne took a three-week break from the game, spending part of it in Thailand and Fiji, before returning to represent Victoria for a Pura Cup match against South Australia starting February 2. "I needed three weeks off," he said. "I could probably have done with a few more weeks to be honest, but I really wanted to play the last few games for Victoria. I wanted to get back in the groove. I've missed the game. It's always nice to have a few games, especially with Victoria."

In 2003 Warne announced that he would retire from ODIs after the World Cup, but he failed a drugs test before the tournament started, and has focussed on Tests ever since.