Shane Warne to propose to Liz Hurley?

Shane Warne has decided to ask Liz Hurley to marry him, according to his friends.

The 42-year-old former Australian cricketer, who first became romantically involved with Hurley late last year, has reportedly told friends that he will propose to the model and Gossip Girl actress by the end of this year.

"Liz and Shane have a really happy, fun and secure relationship," one source close to Warne told The Mirror. "They are forever giggling. Shane absolutely adores her and is keen to make their relationship official.

"He plans on proposing before Christmas, with the couple having a low-key wedding late next year. Shane is romantic and a ­traditionalist, and will definitely get down on bended knee to do the deed. Liz is in no hurry to walk down the aisle again, though, after only divorcing her ex in the summer."

The couple were rumoured to be engaged last month, but the sports star hit back at the reports, saying that although he is "in love" with Hurley, he will let the public know if there is an important "announcement" to make.

Warne has three children with ex-wife Simone Callahan, while Hurley split from Arun Nayar last December after four years of marriage.