If you had not become a successful cricketer, what would you be doing now?

I love driving fast cars, I’ve got a Lamborghini at home, so a racing car driver, that’s what I’d be doing.

How did you feel when you were rejected by St Kilda Football Club?

Mate, I was shattered. I played reserves, under-19s and I was in the senior squad for three months, playing at full forward. I can still remember the letter I received: “Dear Shane, we regret to inform you that your services are no longer required.” I can’t remember what I did that day, probably got poleaxed.

What was your biggest moment in cricket?

My first Test match when I looked up at the electronic scoreboard and read the words: “Congratulations Shane Warne. You are the 350th Australian Test player.” It’s still my highlight because I had never expected to do it. It gave me direction.

Who is the best cricketer you played with?

I would say Allan Border for genuine toughness, though the most talented player was Mark Waugh.

Who was the best sledger?

Paul Nixon from Leicester was pretty good but mostly it would be wicketkeepers like Adam Parore from New Zealand, who never shut up, and Darren Berry.

When you named your top 100 cricketers in Shane Warne’s Century were there any you felt uncomfortable including?

Arjuna Ranatunga. I don’t think he played the game in the right spirit.

Which athlete do you most enjoy watching?

Muhammad Ali. He was a showman, a rock star and he handled all the pressure of the times he lived in. I’m also a big John McEnroe fan.

How did you find the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship this month?

I have never been as cold in all my life as I was at Carnoustie. The sixth hole at Kingsbarns on day one measured about 360 yards and I drove the ball to within 10ft of the pin, with the wind. At Carnoustie I got on the practice range and hit three drives. The first two I absolutely creamed and they didn’t make the 150-yard marker. The last one I tried to keep it low, shanked it and said, ‘That’s it, I’m off’.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I may have done a few things in a different way but I can’t change them. If you beat yourself up over things, you will end up in a straitjacket.

What is the most bizarre thing that has happened to you in the past week?

I was asked by a pregnant lady in a book shop, a total stranger, to rub her tummy so that she would produce a good cricketer.

What songs are on your iPhone?

I’m good friends with Chris Martin and a big fan of Coldplay, I just love their music. I was in the studio when they did the Viva la Vida album. Bon Jovi’s In These Arms is always good to sing along to when you’ve had a few beers. Thunder Road by Bruce Springsteen is my favourite all-time song. I like Elvis and the Rolling Stones, too.

Favourite cuisine?

Pizza, without a doubt. Just think of the kids’ menu and generally I’ll be okay. Pizza, spaghetti bolognese, nachos, hot dogs, ice cream. I’m a simple guy.

Shane Warne's Century: My Top 100 Test Cricketers (Mainstream, £17.99)