Cricket Star Warne Tries to Take Poker Pots at WSOP Like Wickets
Americans are used to the spattering of celebrities scattered among the entrants to the World Series of Poker's Main Event; Gabe Kaplan, Jennifer Tilly, and Shannon Elizabeth are among regular participants, and more familiar faces appear every year. Yet, this year, perhaps the most recognizable star on the worldwide stage to try his hand at the poker marathon isn't hardly known in the United States.
Shane Warne, one of the greatest cricket players of all time, has already advanced to the tournament's second day, one of 1158 players to survive out of the field of 9000 plus. Warne has achieved international fame as arguably the greatest leg spin bowler in the sport's history.
Warne was selected as one of five cricketeers to the list of the best five players of the century, and was the only bowler to make the group. He held all-time records for wickets taken in both international and league play at the time of his retirement.
The Aussie was also a famed bad boy of cricket, noted for suspicions of ties to gambling elements, use of forbidden substances, and marital infidelities, including published photos of Warne in his underwear cavorting with two young models. His recent attempt to reconcile with his wife was reportedly ruined by his texting her a message he meant for another woman.
Warne noted that the poker tourney had proven mentally exhausting, but he hit a couple big pots to keep him alive and viable as play continued.
Cricket may have found him a shady character, but in poker, Warne is one of the guys. Everyone involved is a gambler, opponents hope you are abusing substances, and the more semi-nude models you bring around, the more poker nights to which you will be invited.
