Shane Warne to mentor Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2018

Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], Feb 13 (ANI): Former Australia leg-spinner Shane Warne has been roped in as the mentor of the Rajasthan Royals ahead of the 11th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

The 48-year-old had captained Rajasthan Royals from 2008 to 2011 while leading the side to the title glory in the inaugural edition of the tournament.

Warne, who currently remains the franchise's third-highest wicket-taker of all time with 58 wickets from 56 matches, is now all set to renew his association with the side.

Reflecting on the same, Warne said that he is excited to be back in the side which hold a very special place in his cricket journey.

"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. We have a strong, young and energetic bunch of boys, and I am looking forward to work with them,” ESPNcricinfo quoted Warne, as saying.

The main role of Warne would be to closely work with the senior leaders in the team, particularly the captain and to ensure all areas of strategy and tactics are being covered. He is also required to work with all the spinners to impart technical knowledge in the art of spin.

While Warne had previously worked with India batsman Ajinkya Rahane, he would work with current Australian skipper and Rajasthan Royals’ captain Steven Smith for the first time in the IPL. (ANI)