Shane Warne was taking wickets left, right and centre with almost 500 scalps at international level, so when Hampshire announced the signing of the World Cup winner on this day 17 years ago, it was certainly exciting times ahead for the English county side.
It was no surprise, the spinner went on to become a pivotal figure for Hampshire in his eight year stay from 2000- 2008.
After briefly leaving after his two-year deal ended, taking 70 wickets, Warne returned as captain, leading the side to the 2005 C&G Trophy and back to Division One of the County Championship as well as being in the title mix for the next three seasons. The club later renamed a stand after the legend.
Memorable events on this day
1948: Australian Don Bradman plays his last innings on British soil in Aberdeen, scoring 123 against Scotland.
2004: Jaguar announces they would be pulling out of Formula One at the end of the season.
2009: England lose by 111 runs to Australia in the sixth ODI at Trent Bridge.
2015: FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke is suspended from duty into allegations he was implicated in a World Cup tickets scheme.
