New-Delhi 13 February (TNS): Australian spin legend Shane Warne has returned to his alma mater Rajasthan Royals as a mentor in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The former Royals skipper who led the team to win the inaugural season of the IPL in 2008, has made a return to the side.
Warne took to twitter to announce his return with a video saying, Hello guys got a huge announcement that I will be joining Rajasthan Royals of the IPL in the season 2018 as a team mentor. I am very thankful for the opportunity that I have been given by the Royals. I am really looking forward to it. I have been involved with the Royals. I have so many memories, especially from 2008, when we won the inaugural year. The fans in India have always supported me throughout my career but they really got behind us in 2008 with the Rajasthan Royals,” said Warne who has claimed 56 wickets in 52 matches he has played in the Indian Premier League.
After his retirement from the international cricket in 2007, Warne was appointed as the captain and coach of the Jaipur-based franchise in the IPL 2008. He was bought by Rajasthan for Rs 2.89 crore in the inaugural player’s auction. The legendary leg-spinner continued as Rajasthan skipper for four successive seasons but the 2011 season was his last with the IPL franchise. Rajasthan Royals, who were suspended for two-years are now back in the league and have built a squad that can help them bring back the trophy and now with Warne back as a mentor, the Royals will charge their way through the league this time.
