IPL 2020: Shane Warne named Rajasthan Royals’ mentor and brand ambassador

'On my dual role, it’s always a great feeling to be back with (Rajasthan) Royals — my team, my family. It’s exciting to be working across all elements of this franchise that I love,' Shane Warne said

Dubai: Australian spin legend Shane Warne has returned to the Rajasthan Royals (RR) franchise for the 13th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2020) in the UAE.

Warne, who led RR to the title in the inaugural edition of the IPL in 2008, has been reappointed as the franchise’s mentor and also as the team's brand ambassador.

On their official Twitter handle, RR wrote, “Welcome back, Warnie. Birthday boy @shanewarne joins the side as our mentor & brand ambassador for #IPL2020. #HallaBol | #RoyalsFamily (sic).”

To this, Warne replied, “Thanks boys. Looking forward to being back & helping the off field team push the royals brand - plus watching the game from the stands and being on hand to offer any advice if required !!! (sic).”

In an RR statement, Warne said, “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. 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 (head of cricket) and Andrew McDonald (head coach). Hopefully, we can have a successful season and achieve big things in the coming months.”

IPL 2020 will be played in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah from September 19 to November 10. Defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI) face Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the tournament opener in Abu Dhabi.