I know, it's only rock and bowl but I like it, like it, yes I do

Under the bright lights and probing questions of an all-in media conference yesterday, Shane Warne gave off the distinct impression that he is evolving into a cricketing version of Mick Jagger.

He is old enough to be the father of several of his contemporaries. He courts celebrity and, in the case of rock band Coldplay's lead singer Chris Martin, celebrity returns the favour. And despite being at an age where his powers of performance and charisma should be diminishing, he is confident, brash and, when it comes to the show, seldom misses a beat.

Before launching his book, My Illustrated Career, yesterday, Warne discussed the oddity of last week, in which he bowled to Western Australia's Shaun Marsh in a Pura Cup game. Marsh is the son of Geoff Marsh, alongside whom Warne made his Test debut in 1992. Though Marsh has long since retired, taking on roles as selector and coach along the way, Warne is still plying his trade, and with great success. Surely Jagger would empathise.

But if there is any doubt as to Warne's star appeal, it was cast aside yesterday when the leg spinner discussed his blossoming friendship with Martin, who is among the world's top performers.

"We bumped into each other in a lift in England during the 2001 Ashes series and became very good friends," Warne said. "I went over to his house for dinner in London, we spoke all the time on the phone and hung out a few times. He's a really good guy."

The rock star theme continued yesterday, with Warne fielding as many questions about his personal life as his cricket. "If you look at the public record, we're divorced, but we get on fine," Warne replied when asked about reports he had reconciled with his former wife.

And like most celebrities of his ilk, Warne revealed that his past was not without its trials. "When I was at kindergarten someone jumped on my back and broke my legs," he said. "I was getting around on a trolley like that for 12 months, lying down with broken legs. That might have something to do with why my wrists are good and have helped me bowl leg spin."

From adversity sprouted triumph. Encore.

Source: http://www.smh.com.au