Emily Sears sets the record straight on Shane Warne relationship rumours

Model Emily Sears has opened up on her devastation at Shane Warne’s death and denied rumours about the pair’s relationship.

Model Emily Sears has opened up on her relationship with Shane Warne, declaring the pair were “just mates” as she reflected on how lucky she was to know him.

Warne tragically died of a heart attack while on holiday in Thailand last month, aged just 52.

A public memorial for the cricketing legend held at the MCG provided a fitting send-off for the man known as The King, as friends and family shared their fondest memories of the leg-spin wizard.

Warne was romantically linked to Sears in 2017 when the two were spotted together at a Los Angeles restaurant but she denied their relationship was anything other than platonic.

“It’s ridiculous how they spin a couple of photos into a story. Our relationship wasn’t romantic. We were just mates!” Sears told Maxim Australia, as she graced the cover of the magazine’s latest issue.

“I feel very fortunate to have got to know Shane. Our friendship was pretty typical — just two Aussies getting together in LA with some mutual friends whenever we had the chance.

“He was as down to earth, fun, kind and as genuine as it gets.

“He loved life and his family. He’s gone far too soon.

“Last time we spoke we were planning to catch up when I was next in Melbourne, so it’s very sad to be here now and he’s not. But I do feel very blessed to have met him at all.”

Sears took to Instagram to pay tribute to Warne after his death, which shocked the world.

“Woke up to the horrible news RIP @shanewarne23 you were a great mate and a legendary Aussie,” she wrote at the time. “I’m in shock and heartbroken.

“I don’t have words right now #ripshanewarne.”

Sears shared several photos of the pair together and also a text exchange with the cricket icon.

“Glad you’re all cool. I’m great and crushing it haha! You headed this way at all?” a message from Warne read.

Sears replied: “Yeah at some point! Hopefully in the next few months I wanna came when it’s still warm.”

Warne added: “Yay! Make sure you hit me up when you get here! Be safe.”

At last month’s memorial, the MCG unveiled its renamed Shane Warne Stand as his three children Brooke, Summer and Jackson brought Australia to tears with emotional speeches.