Shane Warne’s children Jackson and Brooke have honoured their late father by flipping the coin pre-match for St Kilda’s Round 1 clash with Collingwood.
The two children of the cricket legend, who died of a heart attack in Thailand earlier this month, were called upon by the Saints to do the honours of the coin toss.
The Australian sporting hero was a well-known AFL fan and long-time St Kilda supporter.
READ MORE: Kyrgios and Nadal clash in fiery encounter
READ MORE: Why Munster couldn’t leave the field if Storm lost
READ MORE: US Olympian, family targeted in China spy operation
As well as cricket, he played Aussie Rules growing up and even once lined up for the Saints’ under-19s.
Jackson, 21, did the actual flipping of the coin at Marvel Stadium, alongside his 24-year-old sister, with Collingwood winning the toss.
“He (Warne) was a devoted St Kilda man, it’s great to see his kids out here,” said Brian Taylor in commentary for Seven.
“Great to see them smiling.”
Warne’s close friend, former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan, was also in attendance.
“It’s not what I would’ve liked to come back to Australia for what’s going to be such a sad occasion, but this is Warnie’s team,” Vaughan told Fox Footy.
“Watching St Kilda play Collingwood, I know (Warne) had boxes booked for this game.
“To be here for my first AFL game, to see Jackson tossing the coin – it’s going to be emotional but also a celebration of a great person’s life.”
In honouring Warne, Saints players wore warm-up tops with the name and number “Warne 23”.
The Marvel Stadium turf will be painted with Warne’s number 23, as well 708, his wickets taken at Test level.
Players will also wear black armbands.
“Warnie was a great Saints man who loved this footy club,” said Saints captain Jack Steele earlier in the week.
“It’s a privilege to be able to represent Shane on-field and I hope we do him, and all Saints fans proud.”
Shane Warne’s life in pictures: From Victoria boy to Aussie ‘Spin King’
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!
