Australian cricketer Shane Warne, regarded as one of the sport's greatest ever bowlers, has died at age 52.

The colorful leg-spinner was one of cricket's highest ever wicket-takers: his total of 708 Test dismissals across 145 matches has only been bettered by his fellow spinner and contemporary rival Muttiah Muralitharan of Sri Lanka.

Warne also claimed 293 wickets in 194 one-day internationals between 1993 and 2005. After retiring from international cricket in 2007, he continued to play Twenty20 until 2013. 

He was found at his home in Thailand. In a statement, Warne's management said: "Shane was found unresponsive in his villa and despite the best efforts of medical staff, he could not be revived. The family requests privacy at this time and will provide further details in due course."

Cricketers have taken to social media to post about Warne. Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar posted a picture of himself with Warne, writing: "Just heard the devastating news about legendary Shane Warne passing away. No words to describe how shocked and sad I am. What a legend. What a man. What a cricketer."

Indian batsman Virender Sehwag said: "Cannot believe it. One of the greatest spinners, the man who made spin cool, superstar Shane Warne is no more. Life is very fragile, but this is very difficult to fathom. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fans all around the world."

West Indies star Carlos Brathwaite said: "Sometimes it's difficult to remember people who you idolize are human. It's impossible to think they'll leave us. Such a young age with so much more to give to our game. This is a big loss to the cricketing world. RIP Shane Warne."