IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals paid an emotional tribute to Shane Warne, who passed away on Friday (4th March) due to a suspected heart attack. 

Shane Warne was found unresponsive in his Villa in Thailand and his untimely demise shell shocked the entire cricket fraternity, including his IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals. The Australian legend was the first player acquired by the team in IPL 2008 auction. 

The leg-spinner was appointed as the captain of the team and he proved his prowess by leading the team to the title victory in the inaugural edition of the league. Warne captained RR for the first four seasons before announcing his retirement from the tournament in 2011. 

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The spin wizard represented the Rajasthan Royals in 55 games, picking up 57 wickets at an economy rate of 7.27. After his retirement, he joined the team in 2018 as a mentor and played a crucial role in nourishing young players. 

Taking to the official Twitter account, Rajasthan Royals paid tribute to their ‘first Royal’ Shane Warne. The franchise talked about how the Austrian spin wizard made them believe ‘impossible is myth’ and turned everything he touched into gold. 

"Shane Warne. The name stands for magic. Our first Royal; the man who made us believe that impossible is just a myth. A leader who walked the walk, talked the talk, and turned underdogs into champions. A mentor who turned everything he touched into gold," Rajasthan Royals Tweeted. 

The franchise further mourned the sudden demise of Shane Warne, saying that the he will forever be their captain, leader, Royal.

"We don't have the words to express what we truly feel at the moment, but what we know is that the world is poorer today, as it will now exist without his smile, his brilliance, and his attitude to live to its fullest. 

“We are completely heartbroken as are millions of cricket fans around the world. Warnie, you will forever be our captain, leader, Royal. Rest in Peace, legend,” the franchise added.