I have to agree with those here that say that Shane Warne is possibly the best spin bowler the game has seen. There can be debates over the number one of all time, and no doubt Murali fans will say that he is the best spin bowler in modern times, and perhaps since cricket's birth. But for my money, I would chose Warne over all. The package he brings ensures it swings in his favour. He is a showman, he's a leg spinner (which in my opinion brings something brilliant in the way of variety to the game, and not many can do it), he's a character and the one person you can always throw the ball to in times of crisis. He never ever gives up. In the second test, when even most of the Aussie players were doubting if a result was possible by their own admission, he was the one that kept believing they could win. Even if they needed three wickets in one over to win, he'd believe it was possible. He's also been a very useful batsman too to add to his positives. Quite simply he brought a new dimension to cricket in the modern era.
And McGrath, again where do you start? Not the fastest, and sometimes you can get amongst him. Very rare though. But again, in my opinion, one of the finest seam bowlers the game has produced. I've jokingly hated him over the years, always moaning, always whingeing, and always getting English wickets. But as a cricket fan, you have to stand back and say that he's been fantastic. Accuracy personified, and another with a never say die attitude. And he alone, probably denied someone of the calibre of Mike Atherton from reaching a career end very good average in the late forties. What a great duel that used to be, I'll bet Athers still has sleepness nights over McGrath! If the rumours are true, it will be a great boost for the English and the other Test Nations, but a great, great loss to the game as a whole.
