Jackson Warne, the 27-year-old son of late cricket legend Shane Warne, has landed a surprise television role with Sky Sports in the UK.
He is spending a month in England working as a roving reporter and interviewer during The Hundred competition, chatting to some of the game's biggest stars from the sidelines.
Jackson said in a recent clip that things are so far so good, and that he is learning and improving with each interview but still has lots of work to do. He said it is something different for him and that he is really enjoying it.
Despite describing the role as an unexpected career pivot, Jackson has already won over colleagues, players and viewers with his down-to-earth interviewing style, asking players about the intricacies of the sport as well as broader topics such as their personal goals and life off the field.
A tribute to Shane Warne
The job carries special significance for the Warne family. In June 2022, Sky Sports renamed its main commentary box at London's Lord's Cricket Ground the Shane Warne Commentary Box, months after the Australian cricket great's sudden death, to honour his contribution to the sport.
Podcast relaunch and poker
Away from television, Jackson is preparing to relaunch his podcast, Warnes Way, in September. He launched the series in August last year to continue his own personal growth while connecting with people who played significant roles in his father's life.
Guests on the podcast have included Ed Sheeran, Andy Lee, Eddie McGuire, Merv Hughes and Jackson's mother, Simone Callahan. Jackson also spent several months overseas competing in poker tournaments before taking on his latest broadcasting opportunity.
Brooke Warne's engagement
The career move comes during a milestone period for the Warne family. Last month, Jackson's older sister Brooke announced her engagement to long-term partner Alex Heath while the couple were on holiday in the United States.
Brooke is said to be hoping for a lavish European celebration next northern summer, with every detail designed to honour her father, and the pair are reportedly planning a destination wedding in Greece. The proposal took place in Bozeman, Montana, on July 11, with Alex getting down on one knee. Brooke shared intimate photographs from the moment on Instagram, including a close-up of her pear-shaped diamond engagement ring.
