admin On Friday, Australian cricket legend Shane Warne’s “baggy green” cap was sold off for more than Aus$1 million (nearly $700,000). It was put up for auction in light of the bushfire crisis in Australia. Shane Warne, the spin legend wore this cap during his 145-Test career, in which he took more than 700 wickets, and said he was blown away after a late bidding war pushed the price to Aus$1,007,500.
In 2003 the cap belonging to the legendary Donald Bradman was sold at auction for Aus$425,000. “
Shane Warne tweeted, “Thank you so much to everyone that placed a bid & a huge Thank you/ congrats to the successful bidder – you have blown me away with your generosity and this was way beyond my expectations.”
“The money will go direct to the Red Cross bushfire appeal. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.”
The cap has an autographed certificate of authenticity from Warne. And the successful bidder’s identity not immediately known.
Australian players were awarded the “baggy green” when they make their Test debut and it is worn as a badge of pride when they are on the field.
On Monday, Warne decided to put the cap up for auction to help those who have suffered in the catastrophic fires that have devastated parts of the country and left at least 26 people dead and almost 2,000 homes destroyed.
Warne stated on Instagram that the horrific bushfires in Australia have left of them in disbelief. The impact these devastating fires are having on so many people is unthinkable and has touched them all. He added, “Everyone is in this together and we continue to find ways to contribute and help on a daily basis.”
Glenn Maxwell, Chris Lynn, and D’Arcy Short also pledged that during the ongoing Big Bash League Twenty20 tournament, donate Aus$250 for every six they smash.
The world number one Ashleigh Barty who is donating her winnings from this week’s Brisbane International to the Red Cross; other top tennis players have also got involved with her, Nick Kyrgios has promised Aus$200 for each ace he serves during the home summer of tennis.
To raise further funds, a “Rally for Relief” exhibition match at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne featuring Roger Federer and Serena Williams is due to take place on January 15 ahead of the Australian Open.
Magazine 
