SYDNEY, Jan. 10 (Xinhua) -- In a bid to raise money for families who have been affected by Australia's ongoing bushfire crisis, legendary Aussie sports star Shane Warne auctioned off his most prized possession -- his baggy green cap.
Fetching a staggering 1.0075 million Australian (692,540 U.S.) dollars when it went under the hammer on Friday, the money from the sale will now be sent to fire-ravaged communities who need it most.
Regarded as one of the greatest bowlers ever to play cricket, the leg-spinner played 145 Test Matches for Australia and took 708 wickets -- the second-highest total in the game's history.
With each Australian Test Player presented with an old-fashion baggy green cap on the day of their debut, the cricketing fraternity regard the traditional hat as an almost sacred object -- and for Warne, it was no different.
But with so many people suffering as a result of the unprecedented bushfire season, the 50-year-old wanted to pitch in and help.
"Thank you so much to everyone that placed a bid," he post to social media.
"You have blown me away with your generosity and this was way beyond my expectations."
"The money will go direct to the Red Cross bushfire appeal. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you."
Although it was kept a mystery at first, in the afternoon the Commonwealth Bank of Australia revealed they were the winning bidder and plan to exhibit the cap at the Bradman Museum in Bowral after a national tour.
"I want to thank and commend Shane for giving up one of his most cherished possessions for such an important cause," Commonwealth Bank CEO Matt Comyn said.
"He has demonstrated the same Aussie spirit we are seeing across the country with acts of generosity and dedication throughout this disaster as communities rally to support each other."
