Shane Warne’s greatest strength... and weakness

Good manners, Hawaiian pizza and people watching? The charismatic cricket legend keeps us guessing.

What is your greatest strength?

Loyalty and my never-give-up attitude.

And your greatest weakness?

I trust people too quickly.

What is the virtue that you most respect in other people?

Dedication, motivation and hard work. I really admire people who work two or three jobs to improve their family’s quality of life.

Need to know...

The former Australian Test bowler is a TV cricket commentator and professional poker player. His autobiography, No Spin, is out now.

If you could do any other job, what would it be?

I’d combine two things: be the greatestever AFL footballer and the best poker player on the planet. How good would that be?

What’s one thing about you that would surprise people?

I’m very well-mannered, thank you very much.

What’s your greatest achievement?

Having three wonderful children [Brooke, 21, Jackson, 19, and Summer, 17, with ex-wife Simone Callahan]. From a sporting side it must be walking out onto the Sydney Cricket Ground [in 1992] and looking up to see the screen saying, “Congratulations Shane Warne: you’re the 350th Test cricketer to play for Australia.”

What’s your idea of absolute happiness?

I’ve had a lot of good times in my life but seeing my children laughing and smiling is by far the greatest joy.

If you could have dinner with two famous people, who would you choose?

Former United States president John F. Kennedy and actor Jack Nicholson. That would be a fun night.

What travel experience is on your bucket list?

I’ve always wanted to go to Egypt and visit the pyramids. I’m fascinated by all that history. I’d also love to spend more time in Italy – the few times I’ve been there it’s been absolutely fantastic.

What do you do to switch off?

I chill on the couch, tracksuit pants on, watching something that doesn’t make me think, like Dumb and Dumber or Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore. I know most of the words by heart.

Who is your personal hero?

Muhammad Ali was the greatest sportsman of all time but I loved watching John McEnroe play tennis against Björn Borg. I always thought there was strategy in McEnroe’s tantrums. He wasn’t losing the plot; he was just upsetting his opponent to get the upper hand. I admire his tactics.

What is the most Australian thing about you?

I take the mickey out of myself all the time.

If you were an animal what would you be?

A lion because I’ve got a loud roar.

Where would we find you at a party?

Usually sitting in the corner. I’m a big people watcher. I’m also an outstanding chair dancer; I can sit there all night, enthusiastically stamping my feet to the music.

If you were down to your last $20, how would you spend it?

I’d blow it all on a large – actually, it would probably have to be a medium – ham and pineapple pizza.

How would you like to be remembered?

So many people around the world love cricket. I’d like to be remembered for bringing joy to them. And for being a great dad.