Aussie Cricketer Raring at WSOP

July 9 - All eyes were on Shane Warne when he made his debut WSOP appearance in Las Vegas this week. The legendary 38 year old Australian cricketer, who has since hung up his bat and cap, heads the Australian poker team to the poker tournament, essentially fulfilling a lifelong dream of leading an Aussie team - whether cricket or hold 'em!

Donning a black cap and reflective sunglasses to hide his eyes, Warne got off to a shaky start but soon bounced back with aggressive play and a professional looking poker face.

"In the first few minutes, I was a bit nervous," recalled Warne. "But I'm really enjoying it, the atmosphere is unreal - I've been running on adrenalin."

Warne's first game was played on the second day of the tournament which took place at the Rio Hotel and Casino in Vegas. "I was going really well after the first break," said Warne. "I had $25,000 in chips but then I lost one big hand of $10.000." However, five hours into play, the Aussie's luck changed and he won a $29,000 pot.

Warne said that he did not realize how tiring the World Series of Poker event could be. "I'll probably collapse tonight - I'm exhausted," he admitted.

Shane Warne feels that his experience on the cricket field for so many years contributes to his success as a poker star. "Definitely!" he replied when asked about the impact of cricket on his poker sessions. "Both cricket and poker take a lot of patience and it's all about reading the player."

Before heading out for the competition with his team, Warne kept expectancy levels down by saying, "I'm sure I won't make the final table on my debut."

Joe Hachem, a fellow Australian who grabbed the WSOP title in 2005, has been guiding Warne regarding his poker skills. "He's teaching me about bluffing and when to raise and fold," said Warne. "He's been almost like a mentor."