Warne looks to revive 2008 spirit with Rajasthan Royals

Aussie spin wizard to be back with the IPL franchise as mentor

Shane Warne, who captained a young Rajasthan Royals team to the Indian Premier League (IPL) in it’s first edition in 2008, will be back with the franchise in their comeback season in IPL XI — this time as a mentor.

“I am very happy and excited to be back with the Rajasthan Royals, who I believe hold a very special place in my cricketing journey. I am overwhelmed by the love and affection showered on me by the franchise and fans of Rajasthan Royals,” the spin wizard said in a release.

Warne will be joined by former Mumbai batsman Zubin Bharucha as Head of Cricket. Warne and Bharucha’s association go a long way back to 2008 at Royals. As part of Royals’ think tank, the two have forged a solid combination to carry forward the vision of the franchise. They are looking forward to work with each other again.

“We have a strong, young and energetic bunch of boys and I am looking forward to work with them,” added Warne. The Australian led the Royals for three seasons from 2008-11 during which he played 52 games and picked 56 wickets. Later, he continued to be a guiding force for the team.

“We welcome back Shane Warne as Rajasthan Royals mentor. He is a legend of the game and what he has achieved in Rajasthan Royals is unmatchable,” said coowner Manoj Badale.

In his role as mentor, Warne will have a multitude of tasks to fulfil, both on and off the field. His main role will be to work closely with the senior leaders in the team, particularly captain Steve Smith.