Cricket legend Shane Warne has died of a suspected heart attack at the age of 52.

The Aussie superstar was found unresponsive in his villa in Koh Samui, Thailand, with medics unable to revive him.

A statement from his management company said: "Shane was found unresponsive in his villa. 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."

Warne's death follows the passing of fellow Aussie great Rod Marsh, who was 74.

Indeed, Warne had taken to social media to pay tribute to the former wicketkeeper just hours before his own life ended. 

Widely regarded as the greatest leg-spinner of all time, his haul of 708 Test wickets is second only to Muttiah Muralitharan, while he also took 293 wickets in 194 one-day internationals.

As well as winning the Cricket World Cup with his country in 1999, Warne was part of an all-conquering Aussie side who ruled the Test landscape in the 1990s and early 2000s.

The very first ball he bowled in an Ashes Test in England — commonly known as the ball of the century — saw him take the wicket of Mike Gatting with a spectacular delivery that pitched outside leg stump and took the top of the batsman’s off stump.

Since retirement, Warne has been a regular commentator both in Australia and on Sky Sports in England, as well as coaching various sides in the white-ball format.

The cricket world was quick to pay tribute to a legend of the game.

An MCC statement said: "The MCC is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the death of honorary life member and world cricket committee member Shane Warne.

"Shane was one of the finest cricketers ever to have played the game.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends."

Former England batsman Ian Bell added: "There are no words. A hero growing up and the greatest player I ever played against. 

"I can’t believe it. My thoughts are with his loved ones."

Indian great Virender Sehwag said: "[I] 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."

Tributes continue to pour in as Australia wakes up to the news that one of their global icons has died. 

The men's cricket team are currently in the middle of a Test match against Pakistan, while the women's team are due to kick off their World Cup campaign this weekend.