Ahead of the 2020 edition of Indian Premier League (IPL), legendary spinner Shane Warne has been named mentor of Rajasthan Royals (RR). Notably, Warne is also the brand ambassador of the same franchise.

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The former Australia leg-spinner has been associated with the Royals ever since the inception of IPL in 2008. He had also the team to its only title triumph in that inaugural year.

“On my dual role, it’s always a great feeling to be back with Royals, my team, my family. It’s exciting to be working across all elements of this franchise that I love,” Warne was quoted as saying in a press release.

As a team mentor, Warne will work alongside head coach Andrew McDonald. Both of them were teammates in Victoria from 2003 to 2007.

“We have worked towards our vision of becoming a global team that fans around the world love and follow. This season I am looking forward to working as a Team Mentor and joining up with an excellent backroom staff in Zubin Bharucha (Director of Cricket) and Andrew McDonald. Hopefully, we can have a successful season and achieve big things in the coming months,” he added.

Shane Warne will be working with Royals management team to build their international fanbase. He will also be endorsing Royals’ philanthropic initiatives focussed towards women empowerment with the Royal Rajasthan Foundation, the CSR arm of the franchise.

Commenting on Warne’s appointment, COO Jake Lush McCrum said, “He is one of the all-time greats of the game and is very special to us here at Rajasthan Royals. Shane is someone who exemplifies our vision of driving innovation and we’re delighted to have him with us supporting both the growth of our franchise globally, while also motivating our players for success on the field.”