IPL 2018: Shane Warne Returns to Rajasthan Royals as Team Mentor

“I’m overwhelmed by the love and affection showered on me by the franchise and fans,” said Warne.

Shane Warne is back with the Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2018.

(Photo Courtesy: Facebook/Rajasthan Royals)

Shane Warne is back with Rajasthan Royals! The former Australia captain, who once led the franchise, will be mentoring RR in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Warne had led Rajasthan Royals to their maiden IPL title in the inaugural season of the T20 league, way back in 2008. After four seasons, the 48-year-old bowler parted ways with the team.

RR, along with Chennai Super Kings, is returning to the Indian Premier League for the 2018 season after serving a two-year suspension for alleged betting and spot-fixing.

Likely to be captained by Australian skipper Steve Smith, the Rajasthan Royals bagged Ben Stokes and Jaydev Unadkat – the most expensive Indian player – at this year’s auction.

Warne will be joined by another Royals old hand, former Mumbai batsman Zubin Bharucha, as Head of Cricket.

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 the captain, to ensure all areas of strategy and tactics are covered.

Rajasthan Royals in a statement

He will be working with all the spinners to impart technical knowledge in the art of spin, while working closely with the marketing and sponsorship teams to ensure certain commitments are fulfilled.

Warne said Royals has always been close to his heart.

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.

Shane Warne

“We have a strong, young and energetic bunch of boys and I am looking forward to work with them,” added Shane 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.